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Kansas House Committee Addresses Key Health Care Bills

On February 2, the Kansas House Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation affecting health care delivery in the state. Among the most notable was House Bill (HB) 2509, which aims to amend the Health Care Provider Insurance Availability Act by including all advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in the definition of health care provider. This change would require these professionals to participate in the Health Care Stabilization Fund.

Proponents of HB 2509 emphasized that the bill would compel the remaining APRN categories not currently mandated to participate in the Fund. They highlighted its crucial role in ensuring access to care, maintaining affordable malpractice coverage, and upholding patient protections. However, opponents expressed concerns regarding limited insurer participation in the Fund and the possibility of increased malpractice costs. They referenced previous challenges faced by nurse midwives in securing coverage after their inclusion. A neutral testimony from a representative of the Fund indicated that approximately 32 insurers could potentially write professional liability coverage for APRNs, given their relatively low-risk profiles. Participation in the Fund could also lower premiums for APRNs already carrying $1 million in coverage, which currently costs them around $1,300 annually.

The committee members raised several pertinent questions during the hearing. They inquired about how surcharge rates are set and whether APRNs might face uniform costs, given that rates vary based on practice risk. Additionally, inquiries were made about similar funds in other states, the number of insurers currently writing policies for APRNs, and the implications of the proposed legislation.

The committee also heard testimony on HB 2364, designed to prohibit Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the State Employee Health Plan from favoring opioid medications over non-opioid prescriptions for treating acute pain. This bill aims to remove barriers for patients seeking safer pain management options while empowering clinicians to make treatment decisions based on medical judgment. No opposing testimony was presented, though members questioned whether the bill would apply to private commercial insurance plans and its relevance to chronic pain treatments.

On February 3, another bill was introduced: HB 2520, which seeks to amend the definition of a Home Plus facility by increasing the maximum number of residents from 12 to 16. Proponents argue that the Home Plus model offers more personalized, home-like care, especially for individuals with dementia. They pointed out that rising costs related to staffing, insurance, and inflation have rendered the current 12-resident cap unsustainable, resulting in some facilities closing. Conversely, opponents warned that raising the cap could compromise the model's integrity by allowing more residents without additional staffing or regulatory safeguards.

The committee members explored various concerns during this hearing, such as the potential addition of staff and the prevalence of Home Plus facilities in rural areas. They delved into the rare occurrence of involuntary discharges and the ramifications of increasing capacity on regulatory oversight. Suggestions for guardrails, such as staffing ratios and transparency requirements, were also discussed.

Additionally, the committee reviewed HB 2478, which mandates that APRNs and registered nurse anesthetists undergo state and national criminal history checks as part of their licensure through the Kansas State Board of Nursing. Proponents argued that the bill codifies existing practices, allowing for national background checks that improve patient safety. No opposing testimony was submitted.

On February 4, the committee examined HB 2533, which would enact an occupational therapy licensure compact enabling therapists to practice across state lines. Proponents noted that this compact would minimize licensure barriers, improve workforce mobility, and expand access to occupational therapy services, particularly in rural and underserved regions. The committee also discussed HB 2534, which would establish a respiratory care interstate compact with similar benefits, including increased access to care and reduced barriers for military families.

Finally, on February 5, the committee addressed HB 2528, proposing important changes to the Kansas State Board of Nursing's powers, duties, and responsibilities. This bill seeks to void certain disciplinary actions related to non-practice violations taken between January 2005 and July 2026, revise definitions of unprofessional conduct, and establish new licensure renewal requirements. Proponents argue this would create clearer timelines and standards for investigations while helping retain nurses in the workforce. However, opponents contend that it would significantly limit the Board’s disciplinary authority and public protection measures.

As these bills progress through the legislative process, their outcomes may significantly impact health care delivery and provider accountability in Kansas, reflecting broader trends in the national conversation surrounding health care access and cost management.