Requesting The Hawaii State Center For Nursing To Convene A Working Group To Study The Feasibility And Impact Of The State Adopting The Nurse Licensure Compact.
Impact
The resolution points to critical data from labor statistics predicting a significant increase in the demand for registered nurses, highlighting the urgent need to adapt to workforce challenges. With as many as 1,000 nursing positions unfilled in Hawaii and a looming retirement wave among current nurses, the resolution underscores the importance of innovative solutions to alleviate these challenges. By adopting the NLC, Hawaii could reduce reliance on costly traveling nurses, streamline the licensing process for nurses, and potentially attract more nursing professionals to the state.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 112 (SCR112) aims to address the ongoing nursing workforce shortages in Hawaii by requesting the Hawaii State Center for Nursing to assemble a working group. This group will study the feasibility and potential impacts of Hawaii adopting the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC would allow nurses licensed in one compact state to practice in other participating states without needing additional licenses, thus expanding the nursing workforce and facilitating cross-border practice during emergencies.
Contention
While the resolution is broadly supportive, potential concerns may arise regarding the regulation of nursing practice across state lines, compliance with varying standards, and the implications for local nursing boards. The working group is tasked with exploring these issues, alongside fiscal considerations, including costs associated with implementation and regulation of out-of-state nurses. The outcome of this study could influence ongoing legislative efforts concerning workforce shortages and healthcare delivery paradigms in Hawaii.
Same As
Requesting The Hawaii State Center For Nursing To Convene A Working Group To Study The Feasibility And Impact Of The State Adopting The Nurse Licensure Compact.