WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 2427

Nurses, Nursing - As introduced, revises various provisions regarding medication aides, including allowing for a student in good standing enrolled in an approved school of nursing to be eligible to receive a medication aide certificate. - Amends TCA Title 63, Chapter 7.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rusty Crowe

Tennessee bill allows nursing students in good standing to obtain medication aide certificates, potentially expanding healthcare workforce capacity during their studies.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
#nurses #nursing
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2427

Legislative bill overview

SB 2427 modifies Tennessee nursing regulations to allow nursing students in good standing to obtain medication aide certificates before completing their nursing degree. The bill amends provisions in Tennessee Code Annotated Title 63, Chapter 7, which governs nursing and related healthcare professions.

Why is this important

Medication aides perform critical roles in healthcare settings, administering medications under supervision. Allowing nursing students to become certified medication aides earlier could expand the healthcare workforce, provide students with practical experience and income during their studies, and potentially address staffing shortages in healthcare facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Patient safety concerns: Critics may argue that nursing students lack sufficient training to safely administer medications and that this lowers professional standards or creates liability risks
  • Labor market effects: Healthcare facilities might preferentially hire cheaper student medication aides rather than hiring experienced certified nurses, potentially reducing job opportunities for nursing graduates
  • Scope and supervision requirements: Unclear whether the bill adequately specifies what medications students can administer, required supervision levels, and liability protections for employers and educational institutions

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

Sign in to ask a question.