MEREDITH’S PROVISIONAL MEDICAL LICENSE BILL PASSES SENATE HEALTH SERVICES COMMITTEE
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 25, 2026) — Senate Bill (SB) 137, sponsored by Sen. Stephen Meredith, R–Leitchfield, passed the Senate Health Services Committee this morning.
SB 137 creates a three-year provisional medical license to help attract experienced physicians to Kentucky, particularly in rural and underserved communities where provider shortages remain a persistent challenge.
The legislation allows qualified physicians who completed medical training outside the United States or Canada, have practiced for at least five years, and have secured employment with a licensed Kentucky health care sponsor to practice under a provisional license. After three years of good standing and continuous employment with the sponsoring entity, the provisional license automatically converts to a full, unrestricted medical license.
The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure retains authority to revoke a provisional license if the physician loses sponsorship or engages in misconduct, preserving accountability and patient protection standards.
“Kentucky’s physician shortage is real, particularly in rural areas. SB 137 allows us to responsibly expand our workforce by recognizing experienced physicians who are already practicing safely elsewhere, while ensuring they meet Kentucky’s standards.”
SB 137 now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
Learn more about bills, committees, and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.