The bill amends Section 40.1-5-41 of the General Laws in Chapter 40.1-5, which pertains to the Mental Health Law, to extend immunity from liability to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in the same manner as it currently applies to physicians. The new legal language clarifies that no licensed physician or APRN, who meets the necessary requirements and has the privilege to practice in this state, can be held liable in court for their participation in proceedings under this chapter unless there is evidence of actual fraud or gross, willful, or wanton negligence.

Additionally, the bill removes specific language that previously limited the immunity of physicians and surgeons regarding damages or injuries arising from a patient's exercise of rights protected by the chapter, particularly when such actions contravened medical advice. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, thereby ensuring that APRNs are afforded the same legal protections as their physician counterparts in the context of mental health care.