Bill > HB2029

This bill expands the authority and scope of practice of advanced practice registered nurses in Texas. Specifically, it: - Defines "advanced practice registered nurse" and specifies the activities they are authorized to perform, including ordering diagnostic tests, making diagnoses, prescribing drugs and devices, and serving as a primary care provider. - Allows the Texas Board of Nursing to authorize advanced practice registered nurses to prescribe and order controlled substances, with some limitations. - Removes advanced practice registered nurses from the physician delegation requirements in current law, treating them as independent practitioners. - Makes conforming changes throughout Texas law to recognize the expanded authority of advanced practice registered nurses. The bill is intended to increase access to healthcare services, especially in underserved areas, by allowing advanced practice registered nurses to practice more autonomously within their scope of training and expertise.