Advanced practice registered nurses; revise certain provisions related to, including the collaboration agreement requirement.

HB 40 would allow certified nurse practitioners (CNPs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) in Mississippi to practice independently after completing 3,600 hours of experience, removing the requirement to maintain a collaborative relationship with a physician or dentist. It also permits these nurses to count hours worked before July 1, 2026, toward the 3,600-hour requirement. The bill amends multiple sections of Mississippi’s nursing law to update definitions, exempt these roles from physician collaboration rules, and align disciplinary procedures. This directly affects advanced practice nurses seeking greater autonomy in patient care. (Note: The bill died in committee on February 3, 2026.)