I recently had the opportunity to testify in the Senate in support of House Bill 4246, Nurse Licensure Compact. As a registered nurse in the State of Michigan and a representative of the American Nurses Association – Michigan (ANA-Michigan), I spoke not only for myself but also on behalf of the thousands of practicing registered nurses across our state. Our message is clear and urgent: Michigan must join the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).

Healthcare is changing rapidly. From ongoing provider shortages to increased patient mobility and unpredictable crises like pandemics and natural disasters, the demands on nurses have never been greater. As both a practicing nurse and a nursing leader, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges our workforce faces, especially the limitations imposed by rigid, state-specific licensing.

The Nurse Licensure Compact is a proven, practical solution. It allows registered nurses to practice across participating state lines with a single multistate license. This flexibility is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Joining the Compact will position Michigan to meet the healthcare demands of today and tomorrow more efficiently and equitably.

By becoming an NLC state, Michigan will benefit in several crucial ways:

• Improved Access to Care: Nurses will be able to serve patients in underserved rural and urban communities without bureaucratic delays.
• Stronger Emergency Response: During public health emergencies, natural disasters, or critical staffing shortages, nurses from other Compact states can respond quickly and effectively.
• Support for Military Families: With frequent relocations, military spouses who are nurses face licensing delays that disrupt their careers. The Compact eases this burden.
• Competitive Edge in Workforce Recruitment: Removing licensing barriers makes Michigan more attractive to top nursing talent in an increasingly mobile workforce.

Over 40 states have already joined the Nurse Licensure Compact, and their healthcare systems are benefiting from a more agile, responsive nursing workforce. Michigan must not fall behind.

This is not a partisan issue, it’s a common-sense policy that prioritizes patient care, supports the nursing workforce, and enhances public safety. On behalf of ANA-Michigan and the thousands of nurses we represent, I urge our state leaders to take this critical step forward.

Let’s ensure Michigan’s nurses are empowered to deliver the care our communities deserve, when and where it’s needed most.