(a) An online or distance learning nurse assistant training program shall comply with all of the following requirements:

(1) Provide online instruction in which the trainees and the approved instructor are online at the same or similar times and which allows them to use real-time collaborative software that combines audio, video, file sharing, or any other forms of approved interaction and communication.

(2) Require the use of a personal identification number or personal identification information that confirms the identity of the trainees and instructors, including, but not limited to, having trainees sign an affidavit attesting under penalty of perjury to their identity while completing the program.

(3) Provide safeguards to protect personal information.

(4) Include policies and procedures to ensure that instructors are accessible to trainees outside of the normal instruction times.

(5) Include policies and procedures for equipment failures, student absences, and completing assignments past original deadlines.

(6) Provide a clear explanation on its Internet Web site of all technology requirements to participate and complete the program.

(7) Provide the department with statistics about the performance of trainees in the program, including, but not limited to, exam pass rate and the rate at which trainees repeat each module of the program, and any other information requested by the department regarding trainee participation in and completion of the program.

(b) In addition to the requirements set forth in subdivision (a), an online or distance learning nurse assistant training program shall meet the same standards as a traditional, classroom-based program, and comply with any other standard established by the department for online or distance learning nurse assistant training programs. Notwithstanding any other law, the department may, without taking any regulatory actions pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of an All Facilities Letter (AFL) or similar instruction.

(c) As a condition of approval by the department, an online or distance learning nurse assistant training program shall provide the department with access rights to the program for the purposes of verifying that program complies with all requirements and allowing the department to monitor online or distance learning sessions.

(Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 769, Sec. 4. (AB 2850) Effective January 1, 2019.)