This bill seeks to amend Alaska's nursing licensure laws by establishing a multistate nurse licensure compact, which will allow registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/VNs) to practice across state lines with a multistate license issued by their home state. Key provisions include a new fee structure under AS 08.68.510, requiring the Department of Health to set fees for single-state licenses to match total regulatory costs, while fees for multistate licenses should approximate half of those costs. The bill also mandates the creation of a coordinated licensure information system to facilitate information sharing among states and outlines the responsibilities of the Board of Nursing, including the adoption of regulations for the multistate compact and ensuring compliance with its requirements.

Additionally, the bill establishes nurse staffing committees in hospitals, requiring that at least half of the committee members be currently employed nurses, who will set minimum nurse-to-patient ratios and report compliance to the Board of Nursing. It includes provisions for hiring restrictions during nursing strikes and mandates that employers of nurses practicing under multistate licensure privileges report employment details to the board. The legislation also repeals several sections of existing law and specifies effective dates for its provisions, with some taking effect in 2026 and others in 2032. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the licensure process for nurses while enhancing public safety and compliance with state laws.

Statutes affected:
HB0351A, AM HB 351, introduced 02/23/2026: 08.01.065, 08.68.850, 08.68.100, 08.68.331, 08.68.336, 08.68.710, 08.68.500, 08.68.190, 12.62.160, 12.62.400, 17.30.200, 08.68.220, 08.68.800, 08.68.251, 37.05.146, 08.68.510