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Bill

S 3916

Enacts the interstate nurse licensure compact and the advanced practice registered nurse compact

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Ortt and 2 co-sponsors

Bill S 3916 allows nurses and APRNs to practice across state lines with one license, improving healthcare access and addressing workforce shortages nationwide.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · S 3916

Summary of Bill S 3916: Interstate Nurse Licensure Compact and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Compact

Bill Number: S 3916
Title: Enacts the Interstate Nurse Licensure Compact and the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Compact
Status: Referred to Higher Education
Introduced: January 30, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 3916 aims to facilitate the mobility of nurses across state lines by enacting the Interstate Nurse Licensure Compact (INLC) and the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Compact (APRNC). The primary intent of this legislation is to streamline the licensure process for nurses and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), thereby addressing workforce shortages and improving access to healthcare services in various states.

Key Provisions

  1. Interstate Nurse Licensure Compact (INLC):

    • Establishes a framework that allows registered nurses (RNs) to practice in multiple states with a single license.
    • Requires participating states to adopt uniform licensure requirements to ensure consistency and safety in nursing practices.
    • Enhances the ability of nurses to respond to emergencies and public health crises by allowing them to work across state lines without needing multiple licenses.

  2. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Compact (APRNC):

    • Similar to the INLC, this compact allows APRNs, including nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives, to practice in multiple states under one license.
    • Promotes a standardized set of regulations and qualifications for APRNs, ensuring high-quality care across state lines.

  3. Implementation and Administration:

    • Establishes a governing body to oversee the compacts, ensuring compliance and addressing any disputes that may arise.
    • Mandates that participating states share information regarding licensure and disciplinary actions to maintain public safety.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Nurses and APRNs: The bill directly benefits registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses by simplifying the licensure process and expanding their employment opportunities across state lines.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics in participating states would have greater access to a larger pool of qualified nursing professionals, potentially improving patient care and reducing staffing shortages.
  • Patients: Increased access to nursing services may lead to improved healthcare outcomes, particularly in underserved areas.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on January 30, 2025, and has been referred to the Higher Education committee for further consideration.
  • It is important to note that this bill is related to prior legislation, including S 6873 from the previous session and A 4524, which serves as a companion bill.

Conclusion

Bill S 3916 represents a significant step towards modernizing nursing licensure in the United States. By enacting the Interstate Nurse Licensure Compact and the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Compact, it seeks to enhance the mobility of nursing professionals, ultimately improving healthcare access and quality for patients across state lines.

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

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