Jun. 16, 2021
HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Tarah Toohil (R-Luzerne) that would officially recognize certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) in Pennsylvania was passed overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives on Tuesday.
House Bill 931 will next be considered by the Senate.
“The time for Pennsylvania to officially recognize CRNAs under the Commonwealth’s Professional Nursing Law is long overdue,” said Toohil. “I am grateful for the bill’s speedy passage in the House and encourage the same in the Senate.”
Toohil noted the lack of designation for CRNAs in Pennsylvania creates logistical and financial burdens, and it has also inhibited the full response to the COVID-19 pandemic by restricting anesthetists from providing advanced, critical care services.
In addition, Pennsylvania nurse anesthetists who serve in the military must secure designation in another state to provide anesthesia in the armed services. They cannot assist on rapid response teams in states affected by natural disasters because they lack formal credentials. And, after receiving training in Pennsylvania, many nurse anesthetists relocate to states with full credentialing, contributing to a “brain drain.”
Similar bills were introduced in the two previous legislative sessions.
To view or download a broadcast-quality video of Toohil’s remarks prior to the vote, visit here.
Representative Tarah Toohil
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Contact: Rep. Toohil’s Office
717-260-6136
RepToohil.com /
Facebook.com/RepToohil