New York Extends Independent Practice Authority for Nurse Practitioners Through 2030
New York nurse practitioners received welcome news this legislative session as NYS approved an extension of the current independent practice provisions that allow qualified nurse practitioners to practice without a written practice agreement and protocols with a physician. The extension passed on May 28, 2026, will keep the existing rules in place until July 1, 2030.
This action provides certainty for nurse practitioners and healthcare organizations that have come to rely on the flexibility afforded by the current law. Without this extension, the provisions were scheduled to expire on July 1, 2026.
Under New York law, nurse practitioners who complete at least 3,600 hours of practice may practice independently without maintaining written agreements and protocols with a licensed physician qualified to collaborate in the involved specialty. This framework was adopted in 2022 as part of an effort to continue certain healthcare delivery flexibilities that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although the extension provides four additional years of stability, it does not permanently resolve the issue. Two bills currently before the New York Legislature—S2360 and A1220—would make the independent practice provisions permanent rather than subject to future expiration dates. S2360 and A1220 would also allow nurse practitioners that have not yet practiced for more than 3600 hours to collaborate with another nurse practitioner that has practiced for more than 3600 hours.
As of this writing, neither bill has been enacted. However, the extension of the existing law gives legislators additional time to continue debating the long-term role of nurse practitioner independence in New York's healthcare system.
For nurse practitioners currently practicing in New York, no immediate action is required as a result of the extension. The existing rules remain in effect and will continue unchanged through July 1, 2030.
If you have questions regarding compliance, employment agreements, practice structures, or other legal issues affecting nurse practitioners and healthcare providers, Amy L. Varel at avarel@mccmlaw.com or 585-512-3506; Letty Laskowski at llaskowski@mccmlaw.com or 585-512-3538; Michael F. McConville at mmcconville@mccmlaw.com or 585-512-3520.
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