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HB 194

ANIMALS-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

House Bill 194 enhances collaboration between medical and nursing professionals by expanding committee membership and increasing per diem compensation for advanced practice nurses.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 194

Summary of House Bill 194

Bill Number: HB 194
Title: Medical Examiners Board and Nursing Board Collaborative Practice; Joint Committee, Membership and Procedures Revised
Status: Enacted
Introduced: February 5, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Occupational Licensing Boards

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 194 aims to revise the structure and procedures of the Joint Committee of the State Board of Medical Examiners and the Board of Nursing for Advanced Practice Nurses. The bill seeks to enhance collaboration between medical and nursing professionals by updating the committee's membership and adjusting the per diem compensation for its members.

Key Provisions

  • Membership Changes:

    • The bill expands the membership of the Joint Committee to include:
    • Two certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs) actively engaged in collaborative practice.
    • One certified nurse midwife (CNM) actively engaged in collaborative practice.
    • This change aims to ensure that advanced practice nurses have a direct voice in the committee's recommendations.

  • Per Diem Adjustments:

    • The bill proposes an increase in the per diem compensation for committee members from the current rate of $100 to a potential new rate of $300, depending on the board's decision.
    • This adjustment reflects the importance of the committee's work and aims to attract qualified professionals to serve.

  • Procedural Revisions:

    • The bill outlines new procedures for how recommendations from the Joint Committee can be rejected by either the State Board of Medical Examiners or the State Board of Nursing.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The bill primarily affects the State Board of Medical Examiners and the Board of Nursing, as well as advanced practice nurses, including CRNPs and CNMs.
    • By including more advanced practice nurses in the decision-making process, the bill aims to improve the regulatory environment for these professionals.

  • Financial Implications:

    • The fiscal note indicates that the enactment of this bill could lead to an increase or decrease in obligations for the State Board of Medical Examiners and the Board of Nursing, depending on the final per diem rates set.

Procedural Timeline

  • Enactment Date: May 14, 2025
  • Key Legislative Actions:
    • The bill was introduced on February 5, 2025, and underwent several readings and amendments before being passed.
    • It was reported out of committee on February 26, 2025, and passed the House on March 4, 2025.
    • The bill was delivered to the Governor on May 6, 2025, and was signed into law shortly thereafter.

Conclusion

House Bill 194 represents a significant step towards enhancing the collaborative practice between physicians and advanced practice nurses in Alabama. By revising the membership of the Joint Committee and adjusting compensation, the bill aims to foster a more inclusive and effective regulatory framework for healthcare professionals in the state.

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

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