DENVER — On Wednesday, January 17th, State Rep. Donald Valdez announced that SB18-027, or “Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact” passed its third reading in the Colorado House of Representatives and is now headed to Governor Hickenlooper’s desk to be signed.

“I am a proud co-sponsor of SB18-027, the first bill of the year to be sent to the governor,” Valdez said. “It is an absolute asset in our battle for improved rural healthcare in Southern Colorado and the San Luis Valley.”

This bill allows nurses who provide vital services to maintain their multi-state license and thus continue to be held to a high national standard of accountability. It will also make it easier for nurses to provide telehealth services, a boon to the challenges widespread rural communities face. Finally, the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact will protect the most vulnerable citizens by mandating criminal background checks for nurses.

“The future of healthcare in Colorado is uncertain, but bills like SB18-027 go a long way in giving confidence to rural Coloradans,” Rep. Valdez said. “I would like to personally thank all the nurses in Colorado who work tirelessly to ensure the health of our seniors, veterans, and all members of the community. I also would like to thank my family and friends in the healthcare field who do an excellent job of keeping Southern Colorado a safe and healthy place to work and live.”