LOS ANGELES --- Assembly Majority Leader Karen Bass (D-Los Angeles) introduces legislation that would authorize the medical examination to be given by a licensed Physician Assistants (PA) or an advanced practice registered nurse to individuals who need special driver’s licenses. Assembly Bill 139 would apply to applicants who need a physical examination to obtain an original or renewal certificate to drive a school bus, school pupil activity bus, youth bus and other types of special vehicles.

“I am confident that Physician Assistants and advanced practice nurses meet the qualifications necessary to provide the physical exam and there isn’t a logical reason why applicants should not have the option to utilize their services and expertise,” said Majority Leader Karen Bass, a licensed Physician Assistant.

The current law requires applicants to submit to the Department of Motor Vehicles a report of a medical physician's examination of the applicant given not more than 2 years prior to the application date. Majority Leader Bass serves on the Assembly Health Committee and plans to develop legislation to help improve policies and procedures related to the medical industry.

Karen Bass has been a State Assembly Member representing Los Angeles’ 47th District since 2005. Speaker Fabian Núñez selected Bass as the Majority Leader for the California State Assembly during the 2007-2008 legislative session, making her the first African American and the first woman to hold this leadership position. As the Assemblymember for the 47th District, Karen Bass serves the cities and communities of Culver City, West Los Angeles, Westwood, Cheviot Hills, Leimert Park, Baldwin Hills, Windsor Hills, Ladera Heights, the Crenshaw District, Little Ethiopia and portions of Korea Town and South Los Angeles.