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Bill

SB 102

NURSE LICENSURE COMPACT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Sara Feigenholtz and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois joins the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing nurses to practice across multiple member states under one license while reducing regulatory barriers.

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Bill Summary · SB 102

Legislative bill overview

SB 102 would allow Illinois to join the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), an interstate agreement that enables registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice in multiple member states under a single license. The bill authorizes the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to establish procedures for compact participation and recognition of multi-state nursing licenses.

Why is this important

Joining the compact would address nursing shortages by allowing nurses greater mobility across state lines, potentially improving access to healthcare in underserved areas. It could also reduce administrative burden and licensing costs for nurses seeking to work in multiple states, though it requires accepting nursing standards and regulations from other member states.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory control: Illinois would need to recognize nursing licenses from other states with potentially different educational or competency standards, raising questions about whether public safety standards remain consistent
  • Healthcare workforce impact: While increasing nurse mobility may help rural or underserved areas, it could also drain nursing resources from Illinois if nurses relocate to other states for better pay or conditions
  • Professional licensing concerns: Traditional nursing advocacy groups may worry about reduced state-level oversight or impact on in-state nursing education programs and employment standards

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

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