In May 2015, HB 389 Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of the Commonwealth was passed in the House (final passage 187-6). HB 389 adds language establishing the office of the CNO of the Commonwealth within the Department of Health.

The CNO shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. HB 389 requirements states that the CNO will:

• be a practicing RN licensed by the Commonwealth,
• be an RN with an unencumbered license,
• have at least 10 years of working experience as an RN and
• have a master’s degree in nursing or a master’s degree in public health.

Strong leadership is critical to realizing a transformed health care system in the Commonwealth.  Nurse leaders working in collaboration with other health care professionals is a key strategy for achieving innovative health care. To achieve this, RNs must actively serve on committees, commissions and boards. These committees often include Governor-appointed cabinet officials, but lack the engagement of the largest segment of health care providers — the RNs. The development of the role of HB 389 CNO of the Commonwealth is a significant step in achieving this goal.