HI SB2491

Replaces all references to advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) "recognition" with "licensure" throughout Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 457 to align with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing's consensus model for APRN regulation.

Modifies requirements for APRN board membership, qualifications, and eligibility to use the terminology of licensure rather than recognition while maintaining all existing educational and certification standards.

Does not change the actual requirements to obtain or maintain APRN status, the scope of practice, or any substantive regulatory standards—only updates terminology to remove barriers to licensure reciprocity with other states.

Eliminates a barrier that causes other state boards to question whether Hawaii's APRN recognition is equivalent to the nationally-accepted standard of APRN licensure.

Takes effect upon approval, with a provision preserving amendments to the definition of registered nurse practice through July 1, 2017.