By Sascha Cordner
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-989179.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – A Senate panel that normally only listens to budget requests diverted their attention to what they called a more serious matter. As Sascha Cordner reports, after an update from the Department of Health, some lawmakers say they want to give the agency more authority while investigating doctors across the state.
Members of the Budget Subcommittee on Criminal and Civil Justice Appropriations say it's a problem that doctors under investigation are still allowed to practice their profession. Republican Senator Ronda Storms of Brandon grew heated when she found out the Board of Medicine has no authority to suspend a physician's license if they are suspected of crimes, like using drugs or over-prescribing drugs to patients.
"We do that with teachers, we do it with attorneys, we know a whole host of people, that we say if this is what happens, you're going to be suspended, until you go through the proper proceedings and that's what we should do on behalf of the public."
But, Chair of the panel, Republican Senator Mike Fasano of New Port Richey says though he also feels strongly about the issue, all they can do is recommend lawmakers consider drafting legislation because it's a policy issue, not a budget issue. SOC