WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1948

Relating to the prescribing and ordering of Schedule II controlled substances by certain advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Donna Howard and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill expands prescribing authority for nurses and physician assistants to Schedule II controlled substances, improving access but raising opioid crisis and oversight concerns.

Referred to Public Health
#medicine&prescriptiondrugs(s7338) #nurses&nurseaides(s2704) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540) #physicianassistants(s0081) #statehealthservices #departmentof(v0463)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1948

Legislative bill overview

HB 1948 would expand prescribing authority for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) to include Schedule II controlled substances in Texas. Currently, these providers have limited or no authority to prescribe Schedule II drugs, which include high-potency opioids, stimulants, and other medications with significant abuse potential. The bill aims to streamline access to these medications for patients under certain conditions.

Why is this important

Schedule II substances are among the most tightly controlled medications due to addiction and overdose risks, yet they treat serious conditions like chronic pain, ADHD, and narcolepsy. Expanding prescribing authority could improve patient access in underserved areas with provider shortages, but also raises public health concerns about opioid prescribing during an ongoing overdose crisis. This directly affects healthcare delivery, substance abuse prevention, and medical practice scope across Texas.

Potential points of contention

  • Opioid crisis concerns: Expansion of Schedule II prescribing authority, particularly for opioids, may conflict with harm-reduction efforts and current opioid stewardship initiatives during a national overdose emergency
  • Supervision and oversight requirements: Unclear whether APRNs/PAs would prescribe independently or under physician supervision, creating questions about accountability and quality control
  • Professional scope conflicts: Physicians may resist expanding prescribing authority, arguing it threatens professional standards and patient safety protocols established through longer medical training

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

Sign in to ask a question.