Bill > B26-0069

This bill authorizes the District of Columbia to join the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), a multi-state agreement that allows nurses to hold a single multistate license enabling them to practice in any participating state. The bill establishes that nurses can obtain a multistate license if they meet specific requirements, such as graduating from an approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX exam, having an unencumbered license, passing a criminal background check, and having a valid U.S. Social Security number. Nurses with a multistate license must comply with the practice laws of the state where they are providing care. The bill creates the Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators to oversee the implementation and administration of the compact, with powers to create rules, collect assessments from participating states, and resolve disputes. The Mayor is authorized to appoint an administrator and alternate to this commission. The bill specifies that the multistate license is an optional additional licensure method, and the Board of Nursing may charge an additional fee for this license. Employers of nurses with multistate licenses must report the number of such nurses they employ and provide nurses with information about District-specific nursing laws. The compact aims to increase nursing mobility, reduce licensure redundancies, and promote public health and safety by facilitating interstate nursing practice.

Health and Social Services

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0069