Missouri is one of only five states where radiologic technologists can perform procedures without any sort of required license or training about medical radiation safety, patient positioning, or basic radiologic science physics. However, a bill introduced by state representative Galen Higdon on Dec. 2 could change all of that in the near future.

If HR 1604 becomes law, it would require all radiographers, radiation therapists, nuclear medicine technologists, magnetic resonance technologists, radiologist assistances, and nuclear medicine advanced associates to be licensed, helping the Show Me State catch up with a majority of the country.

As the bill explains, “No person shall hold himself or herself out as an advanced radiology practitioner or radiologic technologist or perform imaging or treatment using ionizing radiation or magnetic resonance unless such person has been licensed by the State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts within the Division of Professional Regulation as an advanced radiology practitioner or a radiologic technologist.”

The Missouri Society of Radiologic Technologists has come out in strong support of this bill, asking professions within the industry to contact their state representatives about its importance. The Missouri House’s legislative session begins on Jan. 6.

Full text of HR 1604 can be found on the Missouri House of Representatives’ official website.