Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2978

Introduced
3/4/26  
Refer
3/4/26  

Caption

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

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant for the field of behavioral healthcare. With APRNs granted immunity akin to that of physicians, it is expected that more healthcare professionals will participate in mental health care delivery. This could potentially enhance access to mental health services and improve patient care by allowing APRNs to address patients' needs without hesitation, considering past risks associated with liability.

Summary

Bill S2978 aims to amend the existing mental health laws in the state by providing advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with the same legal immunity from liability as physicians and surgeons. This legislative change is intended to ensure that APRNs can operate within their scope of practice without the fear of legal repercussions arising from their participation in mental health proceedings, thereby aligning their status more closely with that of medical doctors.

Contention

While the bill appears to have the potential to improve mental health care, there may be points of contention regarding its enactment. Questions may arise about the adequacy of education and training that APRNs possess compared to physicians, and whether granting them similar legal protections is warranted. Opponents may argue that the distinction between the responsibilities and training of APRNs and physicians should necessitate different levels of liability immunity, as the implications of mental health treatment can be quite serious.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0621

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

RI H5537

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 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 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 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.