The Wisconsin APRN Modernization Act, which allows Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to practice independently without a collaborative agreement with a physician, was signed into law on August 8, 2025.
This legislation, passed by the Wisconsin State Senate and Assembly, grants APRNs the ability to practice within their recognized roles and expertise without such agreements. The act also establishes a separate licensing process for APRNs.
The passage of the APRN Modernization Act was the result of a long process, with previous attempts to pass similar legislation being vetoed by the governor. The final version of the bill represents a compromise reached after extensive negotiations with various stakeholders, including the executive branch and the Wisconsin Nurses Association. The Wisconsin Nurses Association played a key role in advocating for the bill and celebrating its enactment.
Key aspects of the APRN Modernization Act:
- Independent Practice:
APRNs, including Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), and Nurse Practitioners (NPs), can now practice independently, provided the cases are within their scope of expertise.
- Separate Licensing:
The Act creates a specific license for APRNs, recognizing them as a distinct category of nurses. - No Collaborative Agreement Required:
APRNs are no longer required to have a collaborative agreement with a physician to practice, although they must practice within their recognized roles and expertise.
- Implementation:
The Wisconsin Board of Nursing will administer the conditions and criteria outlined in the new law.
- National Consensus Model:
The act aligns Wisconsin with the national consensus model for APRN regulation.
- Support for Underserved Areas:
The act is expected to improve access to healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas, by removing barriers to APRN practice.
Significance:
The APRN Modernization Act is a significant step forward for healthcare in Wisconsin. It is expected to:
• Increase access to care: By allowing APRNs to practice independently, more people will have access to the healthcare services they need.
• Address workforce shortages: The act can help alleviate healthcare workforce shortages, especially in rural areas, by empowering APRNs to practice to the full extent of their education and training.
• Improve patient outcomes: APRNs play a vital role in healthcare, and this legislation will allow them to contribute even more effectively to patient well-being.