Bill > HB2532

This bill establishes an impaired provider program for nurses in Kansas, allowing the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) to create a program to help nurses struggling with substance use or mental/behavioral health conditions that affect their ability to practice safely. This program, which can last at least a year and may involve evaluations and testing at the nurse's expense, offers an alternative to immediate disciplinary action for eligible nurses who self-report, test positive, have a history of substance-related offenses, or show signs of impairment. Successful completion of the program means no disciplinary action will be recorded on the nurse's license, though participation can be considered for future violations. The bill also expands the grounds for disciplinary action against a licensee, including new categories for convictions of certain felonies and misdemeanors, practicing with a lapsed license, cheating on exams, failing to comply with board orders, and patient abandonment. Additionally, it clarifies the process for reinstating a revoked license, requiring applicants to prove rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence and outlining factors the board can consider. The bill also makes changes to how the KSBN can handle disciplinary actions, allowing for civil fines and the deferral of discipline for impaired nurses who enter into treatment agreements.

Health and Social Services

Health and Human Services (House)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2532/