RCRC, in coalition with our county association partners, supports Assembly Bill 1288. This measure, authored by Assembly Members Dawn Addis (D-Moro Bay) and Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim), would extend the time in which local health/environmental health departments may train and employ a local Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) trainee, from three years to five years.
The REHS workforce plays a critical role in safeguarding our communities. Currently, examination offerings are limited, and the strict time limitations governing how often an exam may be taken, result in the release or reassignment of trainees—even if they wish to continue pursuing a career as a certified REHS.
AB 1288 would improve the process for becoming a REHS trainee; would allow trainees to successfully complete the trainee period; and would provide more opportunities to take the certification test. As a result, AB 1288 would help address county challenges of recruitment and retention impacting the public health workforce, and would expand opportunities for county residents to advance their careers within their local communities.
This measure is set for hearing in the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, May 14. For additional information, contact RCRC Policy Advocate, Sarah Dukett.