Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont recently signed legislation to expand the scope of practice of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), nurse-midwives, and physician assistants (PAs) to perform certain forms of abortion.
Effective July 1, 2022, APRNs, nurse-midwives, and PAs (in addition to physicians) are permitted to perform medication and aspiration abortions under and in accordance with the providers’ respective licensing rules and regulations. This new law aligns with current practice permitted by a Connecticut State Attorney General’s Opinion from 2001. The new legislation also allows APRNs, nurse-midwives, and PAs to consult with patients regarding the decision to terminate a pregnancy. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that physicians are permitted to perform all types of abortions in Connecticut.