Practice of nursing; removing certain limitation on appointees to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Effective date.
Impact
The modifications proposed in SB220 are expected to enhance the governance of nursing practices in Oklahoma. By allowing the Governor to consider broader recommendations, it is anticipated that the board will include a more diverse set of candidates with relevant experience and expertise, thereby enriching the board's decision-making capabilities. This change may lead to improved oversight of nursing standards and practices within the state, aligning them more closely with current healthcare needs and workforce dynamics.
Summary
Senate Bill 220 aims to amend the Oklahoma Nursing Practice Act by altering the structure of the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. The bill proposes changes regarding the appointment process of board members, particularly by removing certain limitations. The Governor will be granted the ability to consider recommendations from statewide nursing organizations when appointing members. The board will continue to have eleven members, predominantly consisting of Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses, ensuring representation from different categories of nursing practice, including education and long-term care.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention regarding SB220 is the balance of influence between the Governor's office and professional nursing organizations. Critics may argue that while increased flexibility in appointments can diversify the board, it could also politicize the appointment process, potentially undermining the board’s independence. Ensuring that the board remains focused on patient safety and the advancement of nursing without undue political influence will be a crucial consideration as the bill is debated.
Practice of nursing; modifying membership of the Oklahoma Board of Nursing; modifying appointing authorities; removing certain qualification of Executive Director. Effective date.
Practice of alcohol and drug counseling; removing certain limitation on appointees to the Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Effective date.
Practice of nursing; eliminating supervision requirement for Certified Nurse-Midwife; modifying various provisions of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act and the Oklahoma Nursing Practice Act. Effective date.
Practice of nursing; providing for independent prescriptive authority of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses who meet certain requirements; modifying various provisions of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act and the Oklahoma Nursing Practice Act. Effective date.
Practice of medicine; modifying membership of the State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision; removing certain limitation on appointees. Effective date.
Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; modifying membership of the Authority; modifying term length; modifying actions regarding removal of appointive members; prohibiting members from participating in certain votes; effective date.
Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; modifying membership of the Authority; modifying term length; modifying actions regarding removal of appointive members; prohibiting members from participating in certain votes; effective date.
Business courts; creating business court divisions in certain judicial districts; providing for appointment of business court judges; specifying authority and jurisdiction of business court. Effective date.
Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; allowing certain appointed members to seek succeeding terms by retention ballot; modifying means of removal; effective date.
Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; allowing certain appointed members to seek succeeding terms by retention ballot; modifying means of removal; effective date.