In a major step toward addressing Texas’s rural healthcare shortages and removing restrictions on Texas nurse practitioners, on May 1 the Senate State Affairs Committee held a public hearing on Senate Bill 3055, a bipartisan proposal that could significantly expand access to healthcare in medically underserved rural communities across the state.
A strong lineup of over 20 testifiers representing TNP and the Texans for Healthcare Access Coalition withstood hours of grueling testimony on the witness stand (watch hearing video here).
SB 3055, filed by Senators Mayes Middleton and César Blanco, would allow qualified nurse practitioners to practice independently in rural areas where provider shortages are limiting access to timely and essential care. The bill was introduced in a special procedural move by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick in late April, signaling that this bill is a priority for him.
“We thank Senators Middleton and Blanco for their dedication to solving our state’s health care access challenges and applaud the Senate State Affairs Committee for hearing this critical piece of legislation,” said Erin Pérez, president of Texas Nurse Practitioners.
“SB 3055 is not just a policy improvement—it’s a lifeline for thousands of Texans. This bill would help address the healthcare access crisis occurring in rural communities, providing access to nurse practitioners who are educated, safe, and highly trained to care for Texas patients. It’s time we give them the ability to serve where they are needed most.”
