The bill, HB128, seeks to extend the operations of the Alabama Board of Nursing until October 1, 2029, in line with the Alabama Sunset Law. It amends Section 34-21-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to require that, starting June 1, 2025, each board member must be appointed from each congressional district in Alabama, with any remaining members appointed at-large. This change aims to enhance the board's representation of Alabama's geographic diversity. The bill also emphasizes the Governor's responsibility to ensure diversity in board appointments regarding race, gender, and economic background, while maintaining existing qualifications for board members, including the requirement that the consumer member has no ties to the healthcare profession.

Additionally, the bill outlines the regulatory framework for nursing education and practice, granting the State Board of Nursing authority to conduct evaluations of nursing programs, approve educational standards, and manage licensing for various nursing roles. Key provisions include the establishment of an executive officer for the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, who must be a licensed professional nurse with a master's degree, and a review of the state's participation in the compact by the Sunset Committee in 2024. The bill also ensures that board members receive per diem and travel allowances akin to state employees and preserves the right for affected parties to appeal board decisions. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025.

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