FLANP Update: SB 230

We would like to thank everyone who reached out to let your Senators know you opposed Senate Bill 230. We must continue to do so!

Since being filed on February 9th, SB 230 was amended February 13th, and passed as amended yesterday, February 20th, in the Senate Health Policy Committee.

Though we urge you to oppose this bill in all its forms as it is wholly unnecessary given the current statutes regarding APRN practice, the amended language passed did overhaul the original bill (language available here: Original SB 230) removing items such as the restrictions on the titles “Doctor”, “Hospitalist”, “Intensivist”, and “General Practitioner” as well as removing the new role titles for APRNs (CNP, A-APRN, CPN). We are not opposed to accurate title protection for physicians as allopathic, osteopathic, chiropractic, or podiatric physicians (and dentists) as such are accurate descriptions of their role but the use of the term “Doctor” should not be limited solely to physicians.  

Use of the title “Doctor” ought to be used in conjunction with one’s licensure title in the clinical setting for those doctorally prepared health care providers. This is recognized in the amended bill (available here: SB 230 Amendment) as an educational degree. As it is an educational title, it may be used by anyone to whom it is granted to communicate an accurate reflection of one’s education, and can apply a variety of academic, professional, and clinical roles. The Florida Association of Nurse Practitioners (FLANP) also opposes any attempt for discipline of APRNs to be given the Board of Medicine or the Board of Osteopathic Medicine as such is statutorily within the scope of the Board of Nursing.

We will continue to monitor, lobby against, and encourage our membership to speak out against SB 230 and HB 583 this legislative session and believe in advocacy through action. Updates on the progress of bills related to NP practice will be provided as the legislative process continues.

For full details on what we are asking you to do & who to contact, visit our TAKE ACTION webpage.