Governor Kemp signs SB 321 into law, expanding APRNs scope of practice in Georgia

On August 4, 2020, Governor Brian P. Kemp signed into law SB 321, which grants APRNs authority to order radiographic imaging tests in non-life-threatening situations as delegated by a physician.

“Gov Kemp Did It! The ink is dry and we can celebrate.  After 14 years, we have a new bill removing an APRN barrier to practice in Georgia. The law will go into effect on January 1, 2021, so we have a lot of work to do between now and then with APRNs, physician groups, and hospitals.  But it is a very good day for patients in Georgia. Thanks all for the support and hard work.” Said Dr. Lisa Eichelberger, Nursing Dean and Professor at Clayton State University.

SB 321 increases the physician to physician assistant supervision ratio to 1:4 and allows APRNs to order advanced radiographic imaging in non-life-threatening situations when authorized by the physician protocol agreement.

This legislation successfully cleared both chambers in the 2020 Legislative Session.

Congratulations to the Georgia Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses and the United Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Georgia, and thanks to all who played a part in getting this legislation passed.

The new law can be found here.

For advocacy inquiries, please contact GNA Sr. Director of Membership & Government Affairs Tim Davis at tim.davis@georgianurses.org.