AR HB1516

Effective July 1, 2018, public school districts with 500+ students must ensure each school has at least one school nurse, and districts with fewer than 500 students must have at least one registered nurse district-wide.

New school nurse hires after July 1, 2018 must be registered nurses; existing nurses renewing contracts are exempt from this requirement.

Establishes tiered school nurse-to-student ratios based on nursing acuity levels, ranging from 1 nurse per 750 students (Level 1) to 1 nurse per 1 student (Level 5 for 24-hour nursing care).

Requires all public school districts to submit an annual survey to their board of directors and the Department of Education reporting nurse staffing numbers, licensure levels, degrees, compensation sources, and the number of students at each nursing acuity level.

Licensed practical nurses may assist registered nurses when necessary due to nurse-to-student ratios or student acuity levels, and must work under the supervision of a registered nurse or other licensed professional.