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HB 1181

TO AMEND THE FULL PRACTICE AUTHORITY OF A CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIFE TO ALLOW ADMITTING PRIVILEGES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Bentley and 1 co-sponsor

Act 138 empowers certified nurse midwives in Arkansas to admit and discharge patients in hospitals, enhancing care continuity and improving patient outcomes.

Notification that HB1181 is now Act 138
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Bill Summary · HB 1181

Summary of House Bill 1181 (Act 138)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1181, now known as Act 138, aims to amend the full practice authority of certified nurse midwives (CNMs) in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to grant CNMs the ability to admit and discharge patients from licensed hospitals, thereby enhancing their role in the healthcare system and improving patient care continuity.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important changes to existing laws regarding the practice authority of certified nurse midwives:

  1. Definition of Full Practice Authority:

    • The bill amends Arkansas Code § 17-87-315(b) to include the ability for CNMs to:
      • Admit and discharge patients from a licensed hospital if granted privileges.

  2. Birth Registration:

    • Modifications to Arkansas Code § 20-18-401(b) and (c) clarify the responsibilities of CNMs in birth registration, ensuring they provide necessary medical information within 72 hours after a birth occurs.

  3. Death Certification:

    • Changes to Arkansas Code § 20-18-601(c)(1)(A)(i) require CNMs to complete and return medical certifications for death certificates within three business days after receiving the death certificate.

Affected Parties

  • Certified Nurse Midwives: The bill directly impacts CNMs by expanding their scope of practice and allowing them to take on more responsibilities in hospital settings.
  • Patients: Patients may benefit from improved access to care and continuity of services provided by CNMs, particularly in hospital environments.
  • Healthcare Institutions: Hospitals may see changes in their admission processes and patient management due to the expanded roles of CNMs.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • Passed: The bill underwent several readings and amendments before passing through both the House and Senate:
    • February 5, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
    • February 18, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
    • February 25, 2025: Notification that HB 1181 is now Act 138.

Conclusion

House Bill 1181 represents a significant step in empowering certified nurse midwives in Arkansas by allowing them to admit and discharge patients in hospitals. This change is expected to enhance the healthcare delivery system, improve patient outcomes, and recognize the vital role of CNMs in maternal and newborn care.

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

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