Multi-state nurse licensing moves forward

BY THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

A House committee Wednesday backed a bill that could lead to Florida entering into a "compact" with about 25 other states that would allow nurses to practice across state lines. The vote by the House Health & Human Services Committee readies the bill (HB 1061), sponsored by Rep. Cary Pigman, R-Avon Park, to be considered by the full House.

The measure, which is backed by House Republican leaders, has drawn support from groups such as the Florida Nurses Association, the Florida Hospital Association and AARP. If the bill becomes law, Florida nurses ultimately could get multi-state licenses that would allow them to practice elsewhere in the country.

Similarly, the compact would allow nurses from other states to practice in Florida. Supporters, in part, have argued that the bill could help address nursing shortages in Florida. A similar Senate bill (SB 1316), filed by Sen. Denise Grimsley, R-Sebring, has not been heard in committees.