AR HB1274

Amends Arkansas Code § 17-87-310(a) to create an alternative pathway for advanced practice registered nurses to obtain prescriptive authority without requiring a collaborative practice agreement with a physician.

Allows advanced practice registered nurses to qualify for prescriptive authority by serving a rural community with a population of 5,000 or less for a period of 5 years.

Requires applicants using the rural service pathway to submit a criminal background check and statement from a licensing authority confirming no criminal charges or adverse administrative actions occurred during the 5-year service period.

Requires applicants to provide a letter of recommendation from a physician licensed in Arkansas or an osteopathic physician licensed in Arkansas.

Maintains the existing requirement that all applicants complete an Arkansas State Board of Nursing-approved advanced pharmacology course with preceptorial experience in drug, medicine, and therapeutic device prescription.