REPORT: March 2006

Ask the Experts

Is my license threatened by new laws?

Q.: I have been told that a new law was passed that requires RNs to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing to practice. Since I have an associate’s degree in nursing, will I lose my license?

A.: No such law has been passed. However, a bill has been introduced in both the New York State Senate and Assembly which would require RNs to attain bachelor’s degrees in nursing (BSN) within 10 years of their initial licensure as a criterion for re-registration to practice in New York State. NYSNA supports this legislation, which is modeled after the requirement that public school teachers in New York State must earn master’s degrees within five years of their initial certification. The increasing complexity of technology, medications and treatments, and chronic health conditions (in all age groups) underscores the need for nurses to continue their education.

Should this bill become a law, your ability to practice as a registered nurse would not be impacted. Language in this legislation will exempt nurses who are already registered in New York State as well as nursing students who are enrolled in associate degree or nursing diploma programs at the time of enactment.

For further information about this bill and a link to NYSNA’s “Talking Points” on the subject, visit www.nysna.org/programs/nai/legislative/ and click on “Encouraging Continued Competency.”