h_fin_2018a_2018-01-16t08:01:19z0 Hearing Summary

Representatives Kraft-Tharp and McKean, co-prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 18-027, which repeals the current nurse licensure compact and adopts the enhanced nurse licensure compact.

Representatives Kraft-Tharp and McKean responded to questions from the committee.  Discussion ensued on where Colorado nurses will be licensed to practice under the original and enhanced nurse licensure compacts.  The committee also discussed the public policy benefits of participating in a nurse licensure compact.

Ms. Theresa Buxton, representing the Colorado Nurses' Association, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Rebecca Fotsch, representing the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, testified in support of the bill and responded to committee questions. Ms. Fotsch discussed the differences between the existing and enhanced nurse licensure compacts. She also discussed some of the requirements that nurses are required to meet in order to participate in the compact.

Ms. Clare Pramuk, Legislative Council Staff, came to the table to respond to questions about the number of FTE shown in the bill's prepared fiscal note.

Representatives Kraft-Tharp and McKean made some closing remarks on the bill. Members of the committee commented on the merits of the bill.