SOS Brian Kemp: Georgia Nurses Set New Online Record

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Thursday, February 15th, 2018

Secretary of State Brian Kemp announced a new record in the Professional Licensing Boards Division. At yesterday’s close of renewal season for advanced practice nurses and registered nurses, 62,078 nurses renewed on-time – and 99.74% renewed online, the highest percentage of online renewal for any licensed population in the division’s history. Kemp attributes this success to new technology, streamlined operations, and better customer service. 

“Since I took office, I have overhauled technology in every division of the office, replacing outdated systems with more reliable, user-friendly options for Georgia’s workforce,” stated Secretary Kemp. “As a result, we are shattering records left and right, leveraging the efficiency of private sector solutions to slash bureaucratic red tape.  Under my watch, it has never been easier to get your professional license in the Peach State. We are incredibly proud to reach this new milestone.”

There are nearly 180,000 nurses licensed in the state. This year, 71,216 advanced practice nurses and registered nurses were up for renewal, which opens every two years. Only 152 nurses in Georgia filed paper applications to renew their licenses. The deadline to renew was January 31, 2018.

Just last week, Kemp announced a new multi-state license for nurses now that Georgia is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Nurses who apply for this multi-state license can practice in Georgia and 28 other states. Over 1,405 nurses have already applied to convert their Georgia license to the multi-state option.

“Georgia’s nurses care for our loved ones, support us when we are at our most vulnerable, and ensure a healthy future for our families,” said Kemp. “As our state continues to grow, we must integrate innovative solutions to expand healthcare access across all of Georgia, and multi-state licensure – not only for our nurses, but for other healthcare professions as well – is a great way to address this need moving forward.”