S1176 would add a new article to Title 41 of the South Carolina Code declaring that “practice agreements” for certain advanced practice nurses are contrary to state public policy. The bill specifically covers nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and certified nurse midwives who are licensed and in good standing, and it states that their right to work may not be denied or limited by these agreements.
The bill further provides that these advanced practice nurses have a direct, personal, and individual duty to their patients regardless of their employment arrangement. Any practice agreement, including collaborative practice or employment terms, that restricts or interferes with their ability to treat patients within the scope of their education and training would be prohibited, void, and unenforceable. The act would take effect upon approval by the Governor.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would change South Carolina law by invalidating practice agreements that limit the professional autonomy of nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and certified nurse midwives. It would affect contractual and employment arrangements in healthcare settings by preventing restrictions on these providers’ ability to practice within their training and licensure, and it would reinforce patient access to their chosen healthcare provider. The bill does not appear to alter licensing standards themselves, but it would override conflicting private agreements and related provisions to the extent they restrict practice.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes in the provided materials, the overall sentiment appears supportive of expanding advanced practice nurses’ ability to practice independently. The bill’s findings frame practice agreements as harmful to provider autonomy and patient choice, suggesting the measure is intended as a pro-access, pro-workforce reform. No contrary viewpoints are documented in the supplied context.
Contention
The main point of contention is the bill’s elimination of practice agreements, which may be viewed by opponents as reducing physician oversight or altering existing collaborative practice structures. Supporters are likely to argue that these agreements unnecessarily restrict qualified advanced practice nurses and limit patient access, while critics may worry about patient safety, supervision, or the impact on existing healthcare employment models. Because no committee transcript or vote record is provided, specific named opponents or supporters cannot be identified from the supplied materials.