Connecticut House Bill HB06302

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

An Act Restricting The Use Of Covenants Not To Compete For Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners And Advanced Practice Registered Nurses.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6302 would amend Chapter 370 of the general statutes, thereby broadening the scope of existing laws that currently protect only physicians from restrictive covenants. This change is anticipated to facilitate a more flexible healthcare workforce, allowing healthcare practitioners to transition easily between practices and ensuring that patients have access to a wider range of qualified providers. The expectation is that fewer restrictions on practice locations will improve overall health service delivery in the state.

Summary

House Bill 6302 is designed to restrict the use of covenants not to compete for healthcare practitioners, specifically targeting physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and advanced practice registered nurses. With this legislation, the aim is to enhance patient care and bolster the health care workforce by providing similar protections that physicians currently have against restrictive covenants. By limiting the ability of healthcare entities to enforce such agreements, the bill seeks to ensure that qualified professionals can practice without unnecessary restrictions that hinder patient access to care.

Contention

Notably, the bill is likely to generate discussions regarding the implications of such restrictions on healthcare employers. Critics of the bill may argue that these restrictions could deter businesses from making significant investments in training and resources, as they might fear losing talent to competing practices without the safety net of enforceable covenants. Proponents, however, will argue that the need to improve healthcare access and quality outweighs potential business concerns, highlighting the need for a better-supported healthcare workforce.