Texas House Bill HB2718

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the certified nurse aide registry and the regulation of certified nurse aides by the Texas Board of Nursing.

Impact

The amendments under HB 2718 will significantly impact existing laws related to the professional conduct and governance of certified nurse aides. By mandating continued education and the oversight of training programs, the bill aims to enhance the qualifications and standards of certified nurse aides. It seeks to ensure that all individuals serving in this capacity are adequately trained and can meet the growing demands of the healthcare system. Moreover, stricter enforcement measures are outlined for identifying and sanctioning certified nurse aides who engage in unethical or harmful practices.

Summary

House Bill 2718 aims to reform the structure surrounding the regulation and registration of certified nurse aides in Texas. The bill introduces amendments to the Occupations Code, clarifying the definition of a certified nurse aide and emphasizing the responsibilities of the Texas Board of Nursing in overseeing the certification process. It lays out specific requirements for training and the issuance of certificates, promoting a more standardized approach to nurse aide regulations across the state. Additionally, the establishment of a nurse aide advisory committee is mandated to provide guidance on the management and regulation of certified nurse aides.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve the quality of care provided by certified nurse aides, it may also face pushback from those concerned about increased regulatory burdens on training programs. Some stakeholders may argue that heightened regulation could limit the ability of training institutions to operate flexibly or increase costs for prospective aides. Additionally, there is potential concern that the establishment of the advisory committee could lead to bureaucratic delays in implementing the necessary changes, particularly in a fast-paced healthcare environment.