NC H185

Modernizes nursing regulations in North Carolina by establishing a formal licensure process for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) including nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, and certified registered nurse anesthetists, effective January 1, 2020.

Grants APRNs independent prescribing, ordering, dispensing, and furnishing authority, and expands scope of practice definitions to include diagnostic ordering, treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and health promotion activities within their respective roles.

Allows certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) to administer anesthesia in collaboration with physicians, podiatrists, or other qualified health care providers without requiring direct physician supervision, and exempts CRNA practice from the definition of practicing medicine or dentistry.

Creates grandfathering provisions allowing APRNs recognized or approved to practice in North Carolina before December 31, 2019, to obtain licensure even if they do not meet new education or certification requirements.

Establishes application and renewal fees for APRN licenses ($100 for initial application and renewal, $180 for reinstatement) and permits the Board of Nursing to waive regulatory requirements during declared emergencies to provide emergency health services.