1. Updating International Nursing Licensure Exam Requirement

Updating International Nursing Licensure Exam Requirement Act 22 (formerly HB 889) | Passed into law on June 10, 2022.

Amends the Professional Nursing Law to allow the State Board of Nursing’s approval of graduates of international professional nursing education programs to sit for the RN licensure examination, provided such programs are determined to be equivalent to that which is required in Pennsylvania. Effective in 60 days.*

2. Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Act 68 of 2021 (formerly SB 115) | Passed into law on July 1, 2021.

Eligible RNs and LPNs can obtain a multistate nursing license to practice in other NLC states. Effective immediately.*

Implementation process yet to be completed by the State Board of Nursing.

*The State Board of Nursing notes: “Act 68 of 2021, signed into law by Governor Wolf on July 1, 2021, started the process of adding Pennsylvania to the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). In order to implement the NLC, the Board needs FBI approval of the NLC language so that it can provide the criminal background check; regulations implementing the NLC, including promulgation of fees for the licenses; and technological changes to the licensure system so that Board information can be transmitted to the Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators. To date, the Board is awaiting a response from the FBI and is actively working on draft regulations and exploring changes to the licensure system.

Pennsylvania residents will not be able to apply for a multistate license and nurses in other NLC states who do not also hold a Pennsylvania license/permit will not be able to practice in Pennsylvania until after the implementation process has been completed. An implementation date will be posted on the Board's website once it is determined.”

3. Violence in the Workplace/No Last Name on Badges