Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7634

Introduced
2/11/26  
Refer
2/11/26  
Report Pass
3/18/26  
Engrossed
3/26/26  

Caption

Provides that advanced practice registered nurses have the same immunity from liability as physicians and surgeons.

Impact

The bill, if passed, would amend Section 40.1-5-41 of the General Laws, explicitly stating that APRNs will not be held liable in court for their participation in proceedings related to mental health, unless there is proof of actual fraud or gross negligence. This change aims to encourage more APRNs to participate actively in mental health care, reducing the burden on physicians while still protecting patients’ rights and safety. An important aspect of this bill is that it aims to clarify the legal protections for healthcare providers and thus could potentially foster a more collaborative working environment among healthcare professionals.

Summary

House Bill 7634, introduced by Representative David A. Bennett, seeks to reform the existing Mental Health Law in Rhode Island by providing advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with the same immunity from liability that is currently afforded to physicians and surgeons. This legislation aims to recognize and legitimize the roles of APRNs in the mental health field, particularly as their involvement in patient care continues to grow amid a nationwide focus on healthcare accessibility and adequacy.

Contention

While the intent behind H7634 is to bolster the mental health workforce by extending legal protections to APRNs, potential areas of contention could arise regarding the safeguarding of patient rights. Critics might argue that while the immunity serves the interest of healthcare providers, it could inadvertently weaken accountability mechanisms for practitioners if not coupled with robust regulatory frameworks. As the bill is discussed, there may be debates about whether such immunity should apply universally or be restricted under specific circumstances to ensure patient welfare remains paramount.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5537

Provides that advanced practice registered nurses have the same immunity from liability as physicians and surgeons.

RI S0621

Provides that advanced practice registered nurses have the same immunity from liability as physicians and surgeons.

RI S0701

Allows advanced practice registered nurses, physician assistants, and physicians who are and are not licensed in Rhode Island to provide telemedicine services to patients who are in the state when those services are rendered.

RI H5351

Mandates cosmetic medical procedures be performed by a physician, PA, APRN, or delegated to a qualified non-physician, non-PA or non-APRN under the supervision of a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse.

RI S0976

Mandates cosmetic medical procedures be performed by a physician, PA, APRN, or delegated to a qualified non-physician, non-PA or non-APRN under the supervision of a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse.

RI S0694

Details each of those limited emergency circumstances where a registered nurse and advanced practice registered nurses, may safely administer sedation, such as critical life-saving or emergency situations where there is an imminent threat to life or limb.

RI H5428

Details each of those limited emergency circumstances where a registered nurse and advanced practice registered nurses, may safely administer sedation, such as critical life-saving or emergency situations where there is an imminent threat to life or limb.

RI S0347

Allows foreign trained physicians limited license to practice in Rhode Island under specific conditions.

RI H5108

Allows foreign trained physicians limited license to practice in Rhode Island under specific conditions.

RI H6353

Authorizes a physician practice to charge a practice support contribution; provided that, the amount does not exceed $120 per year, per patient, enrolled in a healthcare insurance plan, (excluding Medicaid and traditional Medicare).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.