For Second Time, Wisconsin Governor Vetoes Dangerous APRN Legislation

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) commends Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers for his leadership and dedication to patient safety demonstrated by his veto of Senate Bill 145 (SB 145), legislation that would have significantly expanded scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), including nurse anesthetists, by eliminating current requirements for physician collaboration. This bill would have actively dismantled the health care team model that makes Wisconsin a leader in patient care by allowing nurse anesthetists with non-comparable and far less training/clinical experience than physicians to provide anesthesia care and pain management without physician involvement. 
 
Gov. Evers made clear in his veto message that after careful consideration and recognizing the important role nurses play in Wisconsin’s healthcare system, he vetoed the measure because he objects “to new licensure and practice standards for APRNs, especially those APRNs practicing independently, that do not provide adequate experience requirements, titling protections, and safeguards for patients who may be treated for chronic pain management.” The full message can be found here.
 
The WSA along with other medical professionals in the state and ASA voiced their strong concerns about SB 145 with lawmakers and the governor throughout the legislative process. Thank you, Gov. Evers for putting patients first!