Senate Bill 258 introduces a comprehensive overhaul of the licensure and practice requirements for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Wisconsin. The bill establishes a new licensure system mandating that applicants possess a registered nurse (RN) license, complete an accredited graduate-level education program, and maintain malpractice liability insurance. It also allows certain RNs who have been practicing in recognized roles as of January 1, 2026, to obtain an APRN license without the educational requirement. The bill defines four recognized APRN roles—certified nurse-midwife, certified registered nurse anesthetist, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse practitioner—and stipulates that APRNs, except certified nurse-midwives, must collaborate with a physician or dentist unless they meet specific experience criteria. Additionally, the bill repeals existing licensure requirements for nurse-midwives, automatically granting APRN licenses to current nurse-midwives and allowing them to prescribe medications directly without needing separate certificates.

Furthermore, the bill amends various sections of the statutes to update terminology related to healthcare professionals, replacing "certified advanced practice nurse prescriber" with "licensed advanced practice registered nurse." It expands the authority of physician assistants and APRNs to issue prescription orders, particularly for expedited partner therapy for sexually transmitted diseases. The bill also includes provisions to enhance patient rights and privacy in nursing homes, emphasizing the right to private communications with healthcare providers and allowing spouses or domestic partners to share rooms unless medically contraindicated. These amendments aim to promote resident autonomy and well-being within care facilities.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 29.193(1m)(a)2.(intro.), 29.193, 29.193(2)(b)2, 29.193(2)(c)3, 29.193(2)(cd)2.b, 29.193(2)(cd)2.c, 29.193(2)(e), 29.193(3)(a), 45.40(1g)(a), 45.40, 46.03(44), 46.03, 50.01(1b), 50.01, 50.08(2), 50.08, 50.09(1)(a)(intro.), 50.09, 50.09(1)(f)1, 50.09(1)(h)