I oppose the proposed fee increase for obtaining and renewing nursing licenses in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Here are some notable mentions and comparisons of other states that RNs and APRNs may wish to move to if these proposed changes go into effect. I respectfully request the board consider removing the Board of Medicine from unnecessarily regulating APRN practice to reduce any unnecessary costs rather than having this come from the pockets of APRNs who already pay money to collaborating physicians. 

Virginia initial / renewal RN: $250 / $130 APRN: $250 / $130

• Virginia jointly regulates APRN practice by Board of medicine & board of nursing. There is no independent practice for CNS (APRN) and significant limits of scope of practice for all APRNs. I would never approve a 65% increase in RN renewal, 100% increase in APRN application and 65% increase for renewal unless there was promise that we are able to work at the top of our education and training. This is an unacceptable proposal unless significant changes are made.

Rhode Island RN: $135 / $135 APRN: $145 / $145 https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/216-10-05-2

• higher cost of living & independent CNS practice authority

Washington State: RN $138 / $188 APRN: $130 / $130 https://nursing.wa.gov/licensing/nurse-license-fees

• higher cost of living and independent practice authority for CNS / APRN

New York RN: $143 / $73  https://www.op.nysed.gov/registration-renewal/online-registration-renewal

• higher cost of living

Florida RN: $110 / $75 APRN: $110 / $60

• https://floridasnursing.gov/licensing/

I am happy to discuss the importance of supporting our nursing professionals. I hope to keep this valuable human resource in the great Commonwealth of Virginia instead of driving them out due to high licensure fees.