GNA Statement on Proposed Changes to Professional Licensing Process in GA

Written by Georgia Nurses Association

The Georgia Nurses Association (GNA) today issued the following statement by Chief Executive Officer Debbie Hackman, CAE regarding Secretary of State Brian Kemp's proposal to overhaul Georgia's Professional Licensing Boards, including the Georgia Board of Nursing.

"The Georgia Nurses Association believes Secretary Kemp has already made vast improvements in the licensing process within the current system. We will need to see the specific language of the legislation he is now proposing. While GNA appreciates the need for governmental processes to be more efficient, nurses must always put patient safety first over expediency. There are complexities in the education and licensure of a nurse that are not found in other licensed trades like pipefitters or accountants – especially as it relates to investigating complaints of drug abuse or malpractice, which could lead to a harmful outcome to a patient. GNA has long been a proponent of 'professionals regulating their own profession,' and we continue to support that view. We are in communication with Secretary Kemp about his proposal."

GNA leadership will be available for media interviews on this and other topics, such as funding for school nurses and nursing education programs, removal of barriers to APRN practice and funding for nursing workforce data collection, during the 2012 GNA Legislative Day event at the Capitol on Thursday, January 26, 2012. This annual event gives GNA members, nursing faculty and nursing students from across the state the opportunity to meet their legislators and learn about how the legislative process affects their practice.

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Founded in 1907, Georgia Nurses Association (GNA) is a full-service professional organization representing Georgia's Registered Nurses. GNA advances the profession through advocating relevant issues, fostering high standards of practice, promoting general wellness in the workplace and educating the public. For more information on association activities, programs and membership, please visit www.georgianurses.org or call 404-325-5536.