Arizona Board of Nursing streamlines licensing for out-of-state nurses and military families

On February 3, 2025, the Arizona State Legislature's House Health & Human Services Committee convened to discuss House Bill 2133, a proposed measure aimed at addressing the nursing shortage in Arizona. The bill seeks to streamline the licensing process for out-of-state advanced practice registered nurses and registered nurses, allowing them to receive provisional licenses within five business days of application, provided they meet specific criteria.

The urgency of this legislation stems from a significant shortage of healthcare providers, particularly in rural areas of the state. Proponents of the bill, including nurse practitioners and representatives from the Arizona Nurses Association, emphasized that the expedited licensing process would not only alleviate immediate staffing challenges but also attract healthcare professionals to Arizona. Notably, the bill includes provisions to waive licensing fees for military spouses and veterans, further supporting those who serve the country.

Dr. Heather Ross, a nurse practitioner, highlighted the importance of trusting the licensing processes of other states, suggesting that this measure would allow Arizona to benefit from qualified healthcare providers while the state’s nursing board conducts thorough background checks. The bill also proposes that provisional licenses would convert to regular licenses after six months if no issues arise during the board's review.

The committee discussed amendments suggested by the Arizona State Board of Nursing, which included technical changes to the language of the bill and an expansion to include licensed practical nurses (LPNs). These adjustments reflect a collaborative effort to ensure the bill meets the needs of both healthcare providers and regulatory bodies.

As the committee moves forward, the support for HB 2133 indicates a strong consensus on the necessity of addressing the nursing shortage in Arizona. The anticipated next steps include further discussions and potential voting on the bill, which could significantly impact the state's healthcare landscape by facilitating quicker access to nursing professionals.