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HB 986

Nurse Licensure - Educational Requirements - Enforcement

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 18 co-sponsors

HB 986 establishes or modifies educational requirements and enforcement standards for nurse licensure in Maryland under Board of Nursing oversight.

Third Reading Passed (132-0)
0
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Bill Summary · HB 986

Legislative bill overview

HB 986 addresses educational requirements and enforcement mechanisms for nurse licensure in Maryland. The bill appears to establish or modify standards that nursing education programs must meet and enforcement procedures for violations. Specific language suggests changes to how the Maryland Board of Nursing oversees educational institutions and licensure compliance.

Why is this important

Nurse licensure standards directly affect patient safety, workforce quality, and access to healthcare services across the state. Changes to educational requirements can influence the supply of qualified nurses available to Maryland hospitals and healthcare facilities, while enforcement mechanisms ensure accountability within the profession. These standards also affect nursing schools' operations and admission practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Educational standardization costs: Stricter educational requirements may increase tuition and training duration, potentially reducing nursing school accessibility and exacerbating workforce shortages in underserved areas
  • Enforcement burden: New enforcement procedures could create administrative costs for educational institutions and the licensing board, raising questions about proportionality and resources
  • Interstate reciprocity concerns: Maryland-specific requirements may complicate nurses' ability to practice across state lines or could disadvantage Maryland-trained nurses competing in neighboring states

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

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