Maryland's House Bill 602, introduced on January 23, 2025, aims to enhance the practice of advanced nursing by facilitating reciprocity agreements with neighboring jurisdictions. The bill, titled the Maryland Border States Advanced Practice Nursing Act, mandates the State Board of Nursing to engage in discussions with nursing licensing boards from Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia.

The primary goal of House Bill 602 is to increase access to qualified advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) across state lines, thereby improving healthcare delivery in Maryland and its neighboring states. By prioritizing collaboration with these jurisdictions, the bill seeks to enhance licensure portability, allowing nurses to practice more freely and efficiently, particularly in the growing field of telehealth.

Key provisions of the bill include a requirement for the State Board of Nursing to report annually on the progress of these discussions, with the first report due by November 1, 2025. This accountability measure aims to ensure transparency and track the effectiveness of the proposed reciprocity agreements over the next four years.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to address nursing shortages and improve healthcare access, it has also sparked debates regarding the implications of licensure reciprocity on state regulatory authority and standards of care. Opponents express concerns that easing licensure requirements may compromise the quality of nursing care, emphasizing the need for rigorous standards to protect patient safety.

The implications of House Bill 602 extend beyond nursing practice; it reflects a broader trend towards interstate collaboration in healthcare, particularly in response to the increasing demand for telehealth services. Experts suggest that if successful, the bill could serve as a model for other states seeking to streamline healthcare access and address workforce challenges.

As discussions progress, the outcome of House Bill 602 will be closely monitored, with stakeholders eager to see how it may reshape the landscape of nursing practice in Maryland and beyond. The bill's potential to enhance healthcare access and improve patient outcomes underscores its significance in the ongoing efforts to adapt to the evolving needs of the healthcare system.