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HB 149

An Act relating to the licensure of nursing professionals; relating to a multistate nurse licensure compact; and providing for an effective date.

33rd Legislature (2023-2024) Introduced by Julie Coulombe and 10 co-sponsors

Alaska would join the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing nurses to practice across member states without separate licenses, increasing interstate professional mobility and workforce access.

(H) -- Recessed to a Call of the Chair --
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Bill Summary · HB 149

Legislative bill overview

HB 149 would authorize Alaska to join the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), a multistate agreement that allows nurses licensed in one member state to practice in other member states without obtaining additional licenses. This legislation streamlines nursing licensure procedures and enables interstate professional mobility for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.

Why is this important

Alaska currently has a single-state licensure system, which limits nurses' ability to work across state lines and may contribute to nursing shortages in the state. Joining the NLC would allow Alaska to access a larger pool of qualified nursing professionals and enable Alaska-licensed nurses to work remotely or relocate more easily, potentially addressing healthcare workforce gaps in rural and underserved areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standardization concerns: The compact requires member states to align certain licensure standards, which some may view as reducing state autonomy over professional regulation and discipline procedures
  • Nursing shortage implications: Critics argue the compact could allow Alaska nurses to leave more easily for other states, potentially worsening local healthcare worker shortages rather than solving them
  • Interstate enforcement complexity: Questions about how Alaska would enforce professional standards and discipline nurses licensed under the compact who practice in other states, and vice versa

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

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