March 25, 2014

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) today released the following statement attributed to its General Counsel Tammy Perdue regarding the advancement of Senate Bill 1352, by Senator Denise Grimsley (R-Sebring), relating to health care practitioners. SB 1352 passed the Florida Senate Committee on Health Policy, its first committee of reference.

“AIF commends the Senate Committee on Health Policy for advancing Senator Grimsley’s legislation that would give nurse practitioners the ability to prescribe drugs.

“According to the Florida Department of Health, 16 Florida counties have fewer than seven active physicians per 10,000 residents. And, 29.4 percent of the state’s physicians are age 60 or older and will retire or reduce their practice within the next 10 years. By expanding the role of nurse practitioners, we can properly address the physician shortage in the State of Florida.

“AIF looks forward to the continued discussions of removing regulatory scope of practice obstacles for qualified health care professionals so that we can ensure greater access to quality care for Floridians at more affordable costs.”

SB 1352 has also been referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Senate Committee on Rules.

For more information on AIF, please visit AIF.com and follow @VoiceofFLBiz.