The bill amends the General Laws concerning Nurse Anesthetists, specifically Sections 5-34.2-2 and 5-34.2-5, to expand the scope of practice for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) with two or more years of supervised practice. It introduces new definitions, including "non-supervised CRNA" and "supervised CRNA," and clarifies that non-supervised CRNAs will have independent practice authority to deliver anesthesia care without physician oversight. Non-supervised CRNAs will also be permitted to issue written prescriptions and medication orders, provided they adhere to mutually developed guidelines with supervising CRNAs or physicians.

The bill removes previous requirements for physician supervision of non-supervised CRNAs and stipulates that hospitals cannot limit their independent practice authority. Additionally, it mandates that the board of nurse registration and nurse education will establish rules and regulations to implement these changes. The executive office of health and human services is directed to apply to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for any necessary amendments to the state Medicaid plan or waivers to facilitate CRNA reimbursement. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.