(a) An applicant who is applying for licensure under this subchapter shall:
(1) Provide satisfactory evidence of having certification as a:
a. Genetic counselor by the ABGC or ABMG; or
b. Medical geneticist by the ABMG
(2) Submit an application prescribed by the Council.
(3) Submit a certified criminal background check pursuant to § 1720(b)(6) of this title.
(4) The applicant may not have an impairment related to the current use of drugs or alcohol which substantially impairs the practice of genetic counseling with reasonable skill and safety.
(b) The Board may refuse or reject an applicant, if after hearing, the Board finds that:
(1) The applicant has engaged in activities that are grounds for discipline under § 1799P of this title.
(2) The applicant has been convicted of a crime substantially related to the practice of genetic counseling as determined by the Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline in its rules and regulations.
(3) The applicant has been the recipient of any administrative penalties from any other jurisdiction or jurisdictions regarding the applicant's practice of genetic counseling, including but not limited to fines, formal reprimands, license suspensions or revocation (except for license revocations for nonpayment of license renewal fees), probationary limitations, and/or has entered into any “consent agreements” which contain conditions placed by a Board on the applicant's professional conduct and practice, including any voluntary surrender of a license in lieu of discipline.
(c) Waiver of requirements. — The Council, by the affirmative vote of 3 of its members and with the approval of the Board within a reasonable period of time from the vote, may waive any of the requirements of subsection (b) of this section if it finds all of the following by clear and convincing evidence:
(1) The applicant's education, training, qualifications and conduct have been sufficient to overcome the deficiency or deficiencies in meeting the requirements of this section;
(2) The applicant is capable of practicing as a genetic counselor in a competent and professional manner;
(3) The granting of the waiver will not endanger the public health, safety, or welfare;
(4) For waiver of a felony conviction, more than 5 years have elapsed since the date of the conviction. At the time of the application the applicant may not be incarcerated, on work release, on probation, on parole or serving any part of a suspended sentence and must be in substantial compliance with all court orders pertaining to fines, restitution and community service; and
(5) For waiver of a misdemeanor conviction or violation, at the time of the application the applicant may not be incarcerated, on work release, on probation, on parole or serving any part of a suspended sentence and must be in substantial compliance with all court orders pertaining to fines, restitution and community service.
(d) Where the application of a person has been refused or rejected and such applicant feels that the Board has acted without justification, and imposed higher or different standards for the person than for other applicants or licensees, or has in some other manner contributed to or caused the failure of such application, the applicant may appeal to the Superior Court.