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SB 138

SCH CD-RECRUITMENT & RETENTION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jil Tracy

SB 138 empowers Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Florida to practice independently, enhancing access to mental health care and improving patient management in facilities.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 138

Summary of SB 138: Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Autonomous Practice

Bill Number: SB 138
Introduced: October 08, 2025
Status: Referred to Health Policy; Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services; Rules
Sponsor: Senator Truenow
Effective Date: July 1, 2026

Purpose and Intent

SB 138 aims to expand the scope of practice for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Florida by allowing certain certified APRNs to engage in autonomous practice, particularly in the provision of mental health services. This legislative change is intended to enhance access to mental health care and streamline the delivery of services by qualified nursing professionals.

Key Provisions

The bill amends section 464.0123 of the Florida Statutes, specifically addressing the practice requirements for APRNs. The key provisions include:

  1. Autonomous Practice Authorization:

    • APRNs registered under this section may engage in autonomous practice in primary care settings, including:
      • Family medicine
      • General pediatrics
      • General internal medicine
    • Psychiatric mental health APRNs are specifically authorized to provide mental health services autonomously.

  2. Certified Nurse Midwives:

    • The bill allows certified nurse midwives to engage in autonomous practice for specific acts as outlined in section 464.012(4)(c).

  3. Patient Care Management:

    • APRNs can:
      • Admit patients to healthcare facilities.
      • Manage care for patients within these facilities.
      • Discharge patients, unless restricted by federal law or rule.

  4. Documentation Authority:

    • APRNs may provide signatures, certifications, and endorsements required by law, with the exception of issuing physician certifications under section 381.986.

Impact

The passage of SB 138 would primarily affect:

  • Advanced Practice Registered Nurses: Empowering them to practice independently in mental health and primary care settings.
  • Patients: Increasing access to mental health services and potentially reducing wait times for care.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Allowing APRNs to manage patient admissions and discharges, which could improve operational efficiency.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on October 8, 2025, and has been referred to multiple committees for review, including Health Policy and Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services.
  • If enacted, the provisions of this bill would take effect on July 1, 2026.

This summary provides an overview of SB 138, highlighting its purpose, key changes, and the potential impact on healthcare delivery in Florida.

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

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