The bill aims to extend the operations of the Alabama Board of Nursing until October 1, 2029, in compliance with the Alabama Sunset Law. It modifies the composition of the board by amending Section 34-21-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975, requiring that, starting June 1, 2025, each board member must reside in and be appointed from each congressional district in Alabama, with any remaining members appointed from the state at-large. This change is designed to enhance geographic representation on the board. The bill also emphasizes the Governor's responsibility to ensure diversity in board appointments, including representation from various nursing fields, while maintaining the requirement for a consumer member who is not affiliated with any health care profession.

Additionally, the bill outlines the board's responsibilities, including the authority to approve nursing educational programs, issue licenses, and adopt rules for various nursing roles. It introduces significant changes such as the appointment of an executive officer for the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact for Alabama, who will not be subject to the state Merit System and must meet specific qualifications. The bill mandates a review of the state's participation in the compact by the Sunset Committee, with the first review scheduled for 2024. It is set to take effect on June 1, 2025, and includes provisions for per diem and travel allowances for board members, as well as an appeals process for board decisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-21-1, 34-21-155
Engrossed: 34-21-1, 34-21-155
Enrolled: 34-21-1, 34-21-155