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AR HB1566

AR HB1566
To Require Adoption Of A Statewide Practical Nursing Program Core Curriculum To Increase Consistency In Practical Nursing Education.


summary

Introduced
02/24/2025
In Committee
02/24/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
05/05/2025

Introduced Session

95th General Assembly (2025 Regular)

Bill Summary

AN ACT TO REQUIRE ADOPTION OF A STATEWIDE PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM CORE CURRICULUM TO INCREASE CONSISTENCY IN PRACTICAL NURSING EDUCATION; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

AI Summary

This bill aims to standardize practical nursing education across Arkansas by requiring all practical nursing programs to adopt a statewide core curriculum by the 2029-2030 academic year. The curriculum will consist of 44 credit hours and will be developed by the Nurse Administrators of Nursing Education Programs, working as an advisory group to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. While maintaining a standard framework, the curriculum will allow individual programs some flexibility in determining the breakdown of didactic, laboratory, and clinical hours, and in meeting additional accreditation requirements. The bill also provides two options for certified nurse aides and medication assistive persons to receive credit for prior learning without repeating coursework. A pilot program will begin in the 2025-2026 academic year with a small group of nursing programs, during which the Nurse Administrators and the Board will identify and address any implementation concerns. The goal is to improve consistency in practical nursing education, streamline collaborative efforts, and provide a structured framework for new and existing nursing programs. Additionally, the bill modifies licensing requirements to align with the new curriculum, giving the Board some discretion in waiving specific educational requirements if an applicant is otherwise qualified.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment. (on 05/05/2025)

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