Relating to authorizing the Board of Registered Nurses to promulgate a legislative rule relating to requirements for registration and licensure and conduct constituting professional misconduct

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Smith

House Bill 2323 empowers West Virginia's Board of Registered Nurses to set clear licensure requirements and define professional misconduct, enhancing public health protection.

To House Government Organization

#legislature--rulemaking

Bill Information

Bill Number: HB 2323

Title: Relating to authorizing the Board of Registered Nurses to promulgate a legislative rule relating to requirements for registration and licensure and conduct constituting professional misconduct

Status: To House Government Organization

Introduced: January 29, 2025

Classification: Bill

Subject: Legislature--Rule Making

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2323 aims to authorize the Board of Registered Nurses in West Virginia to establish a legislative rule that outlines the requirements for registration and licensure of nurses, as well as defining conduct that would be considered professional misconduct. This legislative action is intended to enhance the regulatory framework governing nursing practices in the state, ensuring that standards are maintained for the protection of public health and safety.

Key Provisions

Authorization of Rulemaking: The bill specifically authorizes the Board of Registered Nurses to promulgate a legislative rule that:

Establishes requirements for the registration and licensure of registered nurses.
Defines conduct that constitutes professional misconduct.

Reference to Existing Code: The bill references the legislative rule filed in the State Register on August 23, 2024, which is authorized under §30-7-4 of the West Virginia Code.

Impact

Affected Parties:

Registered Nurses: The bill directly impacts registered nurses in West Virginia by setting clear guidelines for licensure and professional conduct.
Board of Registered Nurses: The Board will gain the authority to create and enforce rules that govern nursing practices.
Public Health: By establishing clear standards, the bill aims to protect the public by ensuring that nursing professionals adhere to ethical and professional standards.

Procedural Timeline

January 29, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Tony M. McCombie.

February 12, 2025: Bill introduced in the House and referred to the Government Organization Committee.

March 4, 2025: Assigned to the Executive Committee.

March 12, 2025: The Executive Committee recommended the bill for passage with a "Do Pass" vote.

March 27, 2025: The bill was held on the calendar for a second reading and underwent a short debate.

April 11, 2025: The third reading deadline was extended to May 31, 2025.

May 31, 2025: The bill was re-referred to the Rules Committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 2323 is a significant legislative effort aimed at enhancing the regulatory framework for nursing in West Virginia. By empowering the Board of Registered Nurses to establish clear guidelines for licensure and professional conduct, the bill seeks to ensure high standards of practice and protect public health. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final outcome of this bill.

Bill