APRN Hearings February 7 - Need YOU to Testify (or be there for a show of support)

HB 1773 (transition to practice [TTP]) and SB 1058 (Missouri APRN Day) are scheduled for hearings on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.

• HB 1773, filed by Rep. Chad Perkins, is a transition to practice bill that would grant APRNs in Missouri who have practiced under a collaborative practice agreement for 2,000 hours the right to practice independently. In addition to independent practice, the bill removes all requirements in collaborative practice agreements and specifically prohibits the Board of Healing Arts from promulgating any rules relating to geographic proximity. It also includes provisions to prescribe pharmacologic and non pharmacologic therapies and scheduled drugs.

This bill will be heard in the House Emerging Issues Committee (chaired by Rep. Bill Hardwick) on Wednesday, February 7th at 4PM in House Hearing Room 6. We need a strong showing of support and individuals to testify on the bill. If you are able and willing to testify, please let Derek Leffert know and he will contact you to do some preparatory discussion in advance of the hearing.

• In addition, SB 1058, filed by Sen. Nick Schroer, will be heard on Wednesday, February 7th at 12PM in Senate Committee Room 1. SB 1058 is a bill recognizing APRNs with a special APRN Day in Missouri. The legislation establishes May 6th as "Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Day" in Missouri. Your testimony on this bill is welcomed and encouraged as well.

Both of these measures, but especially HB 1773, have significant potential to move the cause forward. Your input into how the onerous restrictions are burdening you and your patients will be compelling testimony. Get your APRN friends together, carpool, and make it a day to testify or stand in support of these bills!

If you are unable to testify in person, please consider submitting written testimony by visiting https://witness.house.mo.gov/Default.aspx?noticeid=8316 and completing the form. If you have any questions or are planning to attend the hearing, please reach out to Derek Leffert at nursepractitioners@missourinp.org