The bill, HB128, seeks to extend the operations of the Alabama Board of Nursing until October 1, 2029, in compliance with the Alabama Sunset Law. It amends Section 34-21-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975 by introducing new provisions that require board members to be appointed from each congressional district in Alabama starting June 1, 2025, with any remaining members appointed at-large. This change aims to enhance the geographic representation of the board. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the Governor will appoint members while ensuring diverse representation in terms of race, gender, and professional background. It also sets qualifications for board members, mandating that they be licensed professionals actively engaged in nursing practice, and specifies that the consumer member must not have any financial interest in healthcare.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Board of Nursing, including the establishment of standards for nursing educational programs, the approval and licensing of nursing professionals, and the creation of permits for student nurse apprentices and certified medication assistants. It introduces the role of an executive officer for the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, who must be a licensed professional nurse with a master's degree. The bill also mandates a review by the Sunset Committee of the state's participation in the nursing compact, with the first review set for 2024. The act will take effect on June 1, 2025, and includes provisions for board members to receive per diem and travel allowances, while ensuring that affected parties retain the right to appeal 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