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HB 1490

An Act amending the act of May 22, 1951 (P.L.317, No.69), known as The Professional Nursing Law, providing for Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner Pilot Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Borowski and 17 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill creates pilot program expanding Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner authority to increase healthcare access and test advanced nursing practice scope in limited settings.

Referred to Professional Licensure
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Bill Summary · HB 1490

Legislative bill overview

HB 1490 proposes creating a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) Pilot Program under Pennsylvania's Professional Nursing Law. The bill modifies the existing 1951 nursing statute to establish a framework for testing expanded CRNP roles and responsibilities within a limited geographic or clinical scope.

Why is this important

CRNPs are advanced practice nurses who can diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and provide treatment in many states. This pilot program could expand healthcare access in underserved Pennsylvania areas and address physician shortages by clarifying CRNP scope of practice, though it directly impacts the medical profession's regulatory turf and patient care model autonomy.

Potential points of contention

  • Physician opposition: Medical boards and physician groups typically resist expanded nurse practitioner autonomy, citing patient safety and credential differences
  • Scope of practice ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify which clinical areas the pilot covers or what restrictions apply, leaving implementation details unclear
  • Insurance and liability concerns: Expanded CRNP authority may affect malpractice insurance costs, reimbursement rates, and healthcare payment structures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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