Texas Senate Bill SB1415

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/24/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/13/09
• Voted on by House: 5/14/09
• Governor Action: 5/23/09
• Enrolled: 5/15/09
• Passed: 5/23/09

Caption

Relating to certain corrective actions by the Texas Board of Nursing, including a pilot program on deferred disciplinary action; providing corrective actions.

Impact

The implementation of this pilot program is expected to influence the regulatory landscape for nursing professionals in Texas. By allowing certain disciplinary actions to be deferred, it aims to reduce the potential negative impact on individuals’ careers while also safeguarding public safety. The board is required to assess the feasibility of launching the program by February 2010, and if viable, the program is to be developed and executed by February 2011. This could lead to significant changes in how disciplinary actions are handled within the nursing profession in the state.

Summary

SB1415 focuses on the establishment of a pilot program by the Texas Board of Nursing concerning the deferral of final disciplinary actions against licensed individuals. The bill outlines a structured framework that allows the board to defer disciplinary actions under specific circumstances, particularly in cases where sanctions other than reprimand, denial, suspension, or revocation of a license are proposed. The primary aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of such deferrals in protecting public interest while supporting licensed professionals in improving their conduct and compliance with regulations.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB1415 is the balance between enforcing public safety and providing a pathway for rehabilitation for nursing professionals who may have committed infractions. Supporters may argue that the bill offers an essential opportunity for licensed professionals to rectify their behaviors without the immediate threat of losing their licenses. However, critics could emphasize the need for strict disciplinary measures in order to uphold the integrity of nursing practices and ensure patient safety, suggesting that allowing deferrals may undermine accountability.