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SB 2859

AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathon Acosta and 9 co-sponsors

SB 2859 proposes regulatory changes to Rhode Island's physician assistant licensing and practice standards, potentially expanding scope or supervision requirements.

03/04/2026 Introduced, referred to Senate Health and Human Services
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Bill Summary · SB 2859

Legislative bill overview

SB 2859 proposes changes to Rhode Island's regulations governing physician assistants (PAs), a healthcare profession that operates under physician supervision. The bill was recently introduced and referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee for review. Specific provisions are not yet publicly detailed, as the bill is in early legislative stages.

Why is this important

Physician assistant regulations directly affect healthcare access and workforce flexibility in Rhode Island. Changes to PA scope of practice, supervision requirements, or licensing standards can influence healthcare delivery in underserved areas and patient care costs, making this relevant to both healthcare providers and patients seeking medical services.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice expansion vs. physician oversight: Debate over whether PAs should operate with greater independence or maintain close physician supervision, with medical associations potentially opposing expanded autonomy
  • Patient safety and liability: Questions about whether proposed changes adequately protect patients while maintaining accountability standards
  • Professional competition: Concerns from physician groups about economic or professional territory impacts if PA roles expand significantly

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

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