House Bill 2948, introduced in the Oregon State Legislature on February 27, 2025, is poised to reshape the landscape of school nursing supervision in Oregon. The bill, sponsored by Representative Nelson and Senators Gelser Blouin and Patterson, aims to clarify who can oversee nurses working in schools, a move that has sparked significant discussion among educators and healthcare professionals.

At its core, House Bill 2948 stipulates that only registered nurses (RNs) can supervise other nurses in the context of nursing practice within schools. This provision is designed to ensure that nursing care provided to students is overseen by qualified professionals, thereby enhancing the quality of care. However, the bill also allows non-nurse administrators to supervise nurses for non-nursing-related tasks, creating a dual framework for supervision that aims to balance administrative oversight with clinical expertise.

The bill has garnered support from the Oregon School Nurses’ Association and advocates for disability supports, who argue that it will improve student health outcomes by ensuring that nursing practices are managed by those with the appropriate qualifications. Proponents believe that this clarity in supervision will lead to better coordination of care for students with diverse health needs.

However, the legislation is not without its critics. Some educators express concerns that the bill could complicate administrative processes and create barriers for non-nursing staff who play vital roles in school health services. The debate centers around the balance between ensuring high standards of nursing care and maintaining efficient school operations.

The implications of House Bill 2948 extend beyond the immediate context of school health services. By reinforcing the role of registered nurses in educational settings, the bill could influence hiring practices and training programs for school nurses, potentially leading to a more robust nursing workforce in Oregon schools. As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders are closely watching its progress, anticipating how it will ultimately shape the future of school health services in the state.