An Update on SB 491

August 2013

Earlier this week we wrote about UNAC/UHCP’s work in Sacramento and our goal to help shape the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) here in California. Unfortunately one of the bills we were working on and a key component in addressing the ACA failed today and did not get out of the Assembly Appropriations Committee. SB 491 would have allowed for Nurse Practitioners to expand their role in the delivery of care, consistent with best practices as identified by the Institute of Medicine. This was a huge fight in the Capitol and we look forward to continuing to fight for patient safety and your profession.

I want to thank Bobbi Meyer, NP, from Bakersfield for all her work in support of SB 491, and all the NPs who called us over the last few months to provide incredible input. Our Union will only continue to succeed with the commitment and participation of its members.

For more information email Eric Robles, Legislative Director, at eric.robles@unacuhcp.org.