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Committee advances bill letting APRNs and physician associates sign certain certifications to reduce delays
Summary
SB 453 would authorize advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician associates to sign vehicle-equipment waivers and medical immunization exemptions currently limited to physicians, aiming to reduce administrative delays and expand access in rural areas; supporters including the NH Nurse Practitioner Association testified in favor.
Senate Bill 453, introduced by Senator Srentus, would permit advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician associates (PAs) to certify certain forms—vehicle-equipment waivers (for adaptive driving controls) and medical immunization exemptions—where statute currently limits that authority to physicians.
Sponsor testimony said allowing APRNs and PAs to sign these certifications would eliminate unnecessary delays, particularly in rural areas with workforce shortages, and align statutory language with prior "global signature" changes. Public commenters and the New Hampshire Nurse Practitioner Association testified that APRNs are preferred providers for many patients and are trained to make these determinations within their scope of practice.
Committee members heard supportive testimony and no substantial opposition; after executive-session consideration the committee moved SB 453 out of committee as 'ought to pass' and the sponsor will carry the bill to the floor. The committee asked administrative agencies (for example, DMV and DHHS) to prepare any necessary operational updates to implement the change.
