New York Assembly Bill A07692

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/4/25
• Refer: 4/4/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Authorizes certain nursing students to administer certain vaccines pursuant to patient specific orders or non-patient specific orders; authorizes physicians and certified nurse practitioners to prescribe and order a patient specific order or non-patient specific order to a nursing student to administer certain vaccines.

Impact

The bill aims to impact state laws primarily by amending the education law to define the role of 'nursing students' more broadly, allowing them to participate actively in public health initiatives. Additionally, it sets forth protocols regarding the qualifications that nursing students must achieve prior to administering immunizations. It is expected that the bill will enhance vaccination rates among various demographics, particularly given the wide range of vaccines that nursing students would be permitted to administer, from childhood immunizations to those required for adult populations.

Summary

Bill A07692 focuses on amending the education and public health laws in New York to authorize nursing students to administer certain vaccines. This change aims to increase the workforce capable of delivering vaccinations, especially in settings where healthcare professionals are in short supply. Under the proposed law, nursing students will be able to administer vaccines under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers, such as physicians and nurse practitioners, using either patient-specific orders or non-patient specific orders. This approach not only empowers nursing students but also facilitates broader access to essential vaccinations.

Contention

Despite the bill's potential benefits, there are notable points of contention concerning its implementation and the extent of authority granted to nursing students. Opponents may express concerns regarding the adequacy of training for nursing students and whether they are sufficiently prepared to handle the responsibilities involved in vaccination, especially in cases of emergency treatments like anaphylaxis. There are also implications for patient safety and quality of care that will need to be critically addressed to reassure stakeholders and the public of the effectiveness of the proposed framework.