A bill that allows certain advanced practice registered nurses, also known as APRNs, to practice independently has moved to Governor Malloy's desk.

Under the bill, APRNs who have been licensed and practicing with a physician for at least three years can practice independently, without a physician's written agreement. Current law requires APRNs to work in collaboration with a physician.

Malloy says he will sign the bill, saying it will increase access to health care, especially for the thousands of newly insured.

But the Connecticut State Medical Society voiced disappointment with the bill. The physicians criticized it for having little detail about the three-year collaboration, educational requirements or oversight of the APRN practices.

The House of Representatives voted 110-35 in favor of the legislation.  Among those opposed in the House were Mitch Bolinsky of Newtown, Cecilia Buck-Taylor of New Milford, Dan Carter of Bethel, Gail Lavielle of Wilton, David Scribner of Brookfield and Redding Representative John Shaban. 

Carter says currently there is oversight, but he worries there won't be proper training in the future.  He called it a bad idea, expecially without that training.  New Canaan Representative Tom O'Dea, whose father is a doctor and mother is a nurse, says he would not let her diagnose and treat him for a medical problem that he would need a doctor for.

The Senate voted 25-11, and among those opposed were Mike McLachlan of Danbury and Toni Boucher of Wilton.