AARP Backs Bill That Makes it Easier For Out-of-State Nurses to Work in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts legislature is set to allow registered nurses to practice across state lines. The move is part of an economic stimulus bill. The legislation aims to address strains in the nursing industry.

The legislation would create 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.

If the bill is passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, it will be sent to Governor Maura Healey for approval. The Governor will have 10 days to sign the bill into law, veto it, or return it to the legislature with amendments