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 liability immunity to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in the same manner as it currently applies to physicians. The new language specifies that no licensed physician or APRN, who meets the necessary requirements, 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, it clarifies that they cannot be held accountable for damages arising from a patient's exercise of rights protected by this chapter if such actions contradict the orders or advice given by the physician or APRN.

The bill also removes the term "surgeon" from the existing law, thereby focusing the immunity provisions solely on physicians and APRNs. This change aims to ensure that APRNs are afforded the same legal protections as physicians when providing mental health services. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.