Governor Healey Signs Bill That Makes it Easier For Out-of-State Nurses to Work in Massachusetts

Governor Maura Healey (D) Massachusetts has signed into law legislation that will allow registered nurses to practice across state lines. The move is part of an economic stimulus bill signed into law The legislation aims to address strains in the nursing industry.

The change in regulation creates an expedited and less administratively burdensome process for nurses seeking licensure in multiple states, a move that could have far-reaching benefits for both healthcare providers and patients.

AARP Massachusetts has fought for the move. AARP Massachusetts sent legislators a letter urging them to pass the bill. In the letter, AARP pointed out registered nurses are vital to family caregivers.

“In Massachusetts alone, there are 780,000 family caregivers, providing help and support to a loved one who wants to remain in their home and community,” says AARP Massachusetts State Director Jen Benson and AARP Massachusetts State President Sandra Harris. “Registered nurses are vital to these family caregivers. They provide high-quality primary, acute and specialty health care services.”

Read the entire letter here.
The letter also points out that Massachusetts residents are growing older. Estimates suggest more than 25 percent of Massachusetts’s population will be 60 and older by the year 2030, an increase of 33 percent from 2012. The aging population of Massachusetts will continue to grow along with its unique issues related to the workforce, financial, health and long-term care needs.

The bill was passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Gov. Healey says the economic development bill will make Massachusetts a global leader in emerging industries like climatetech and applied artificial intelligence (AI), while also building on the success of the state’s renowned life sciences sector.

Read more about the bill here.

Gov. Healey is expected to hold a ceremonial signing event soon.