MMA Organizes Compromise Regarding APRN Scope of Practice

May 7, 2026

After significant advocacy and engagement efforts, the MMA was able to convince lawmakers to pass an amended bill regarding Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) training.  

On May 5, the Senate passed the Licensure and Scope of Practice Omnibus Bill (SF 3298, Wiklund, DFL – Bloomington). Lawmakers had intended to amend the bill to add language that would have removed the current requirement that newly licensed APRNs complete 2,080 hours of collaborative practice with a physician prior to practicing independently.   

Following extensive discussions among the MMA, legislators, and APRN stakeholders, the MMA was able to finalize a compromise to mitigate the negative impacts the bill would have had on patients. Ultimately, all parties agreed to a compromise reflected in an amendment offered on the Senate floor by Sen. Rob Kupec (DFL – Moorhead). 

The adopted amendment maintains the requirement of a 2,080-hour postgraduate collaborative practice period for newly trained APRNs, but modifies how that requirement may be fulfilled. Under the amendment, the collaborative practice may be conducted with either a physician or an APRN who has at least three years of clinical practice experience. In addition, the APRN providing collaboration must be practicing in primary care or mental health, otherwise the collaborative practice must be with a physician. 

This compromise preserves a structured transition period for newly licensed APRNs, while introducing additional flexibility in how collaborative practice requirements are met. The MMA assembled this approach as a more balanced alternative to full removal of the collaborative practice requirement, which the MMA has consistently opposed. 

The scope of practice proposal also includes language to rebrand physician assistants as physician “associates.” The MMA has also raised concerns with this change, arguing it is confusing or potentially misleading to patients. The House companion bill, which has not been heard in the House, doesn’t appear to be moving. 

SF 3298 now advances to the House.