Whereas, this legislation, which amends the laws governing medical radiologic technology by clarifying the scope of practice for this profession and by providing for reciprocal licensure for qualified applicants from other jurisdictions, needs to take effect as soon as possible to protect the health and safety of the residents of this State; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 32 MRSA §9852, as enacted by PL 1983, c. 524, is amended to read:

§9852. Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings.

1. Board. "Board" means the Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners.

2. Dental radiographer. "Dental radiographer" means a person, other than a licensed practitioner, whose duties include radiography of the maxilla, mandible and adjacent structures for diagnostic purposes and who is licensed under chapter 16.

3. Ionizing radiation. "Ionizing radiation" means gamma rays and x rays; alpha and beta particles, high-speed electrons, neutrons, protons and other nuclear particles; but not ultrasound, sound or radio waves, magnetic fields or visible, infrared or ultraviolet light.

4. License. "License" means a certificate issued by the board authorizing the licensee to use radioactive materials or equipment emitting ionizing radiation on human beings for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in accordance with the provisions of this Act chapter.

4-A.__Licensed physician.__"Licensed physician" means a person licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy in this State.