BILL NUMBER: S8737
SPONSOR: PARKER
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the education law, in relation to establishing a tempo-
rary practice authorization program for certain nurses
 
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this bill is to establish a temporary practice authori-
zation program that allows recently retired registered professional
nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to return to limited,
supplemental practice in the facilities where they were previously
employed. This program is intended to address ongoing nursing workforce
shortages while maintaining patient safety, professional standards, and
workforce integrity.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
This bill amends section 6907 of the education law to create a new
temporary practice authorization program for certain retired nurses.
S1: Section 6907 of the education law, as amended by chapter 994
S2: Temporary practice authorization program
S3: Statue for practicing Nurses and the jurisdiction in which they will
be subject upon returning to temporary active status.
S4: Effective date
 
JUSTIFICATION:
New York State continues to experience persistent nursing shortages
across hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities, chal-
lenges that have been intensified by workforce burnout, retirements, and
the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These shortages place
strain on existing staff, compromise continuity of care, and negatively
impact patient outcomes.
At the same time, many highly skilled and experienced nurses have
recently retired but remain willing and able to contribute in a limited
capacity. This legislation creates a responsible and structured pathway
for these nurses to re-enter the workforce temporarily, providing much-
needed support while preserving licensure standards and patient safety.
By restricting practice to supplemental roles, prohibiting primary
staffing use, and requiring ongoing reporting and oversight, this bill
strikes an appropriate balance between workforce flexibility and regula-
tory accountability. The program also helps retain institutional know-
ledge and supports the training and mentorship of newer nurses.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the State. Any costs associated with participation in the
program are borne by the employment facilities.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law. Effective immediately, the promulgation of any
rules or regulations necessary to implement this act is authorized to
occur prior to such effective date.