AR SB186

Removes the mandatory collaborative practice agreement requirement for certified nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and certified nurse midwives who have completed 1,000 hours of practice experience and apply to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Expands prescriptive authority for qualified advanced practice registered nurses to include Schedule II controlled substances: opioids for five days or less, and stimulants previously initiated by a physician within six months.

Makes collaborative practice agreements optional rather than mandatory for advanced practice registered nurses meeting the 1,000-hour experience threshold.

Establishes legislative intent to increase patient access to healthcare, reduce costs, and allow qualified advanced practice registered nurses full practice authority without physician supervision.

Maintains collaborative practice agreement as an available option for advanced practice registered nurses with fewer than 1,000 hours of experience.