2025 General Assembly Session in Review
The 2025 session of the Virginia General Assembly proved to be a pivotal moment for VANA as we worked to defend the practice of CRNAs, push back against misguided policy proposals, and advance the cause of modernizing outdated supervision laws.
Mobilizing Against AA Licensure
Despite the Joint Commission on Health Care (JCHC) issuing a report in late 2024 that did not recommend licensure for Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAs) and instead called for further study, legislation to license AAs—HB 1647 and SB 882—was introduced for the 2025 General Assembly session. VANA immediately activated its grassroots network. Thanks to our KP Dashboard advocacy tool, 1,842 messages were sent to legislators urging opposition. While SB 882 ultimately passed both chambers and was signed into law in March, the regulatory process for implementation has not yet begun and is expected to take time. VANA will remain closely engaged every step of the way and will keep everyone updated on how they can be involved in shaping the development of the licensing regulations.
Defending Against Expanded Supervision Requirements
VANA’s proactive education campaign in 2024 helped shape the JCHC’s final recommendation to oppose expanding supervision requirements for CRNAs. When SB 739, which would have expanded supervision, was introduced for the 2025 session, it was met with immediate resistance from VANA. On January 24, the bill was pulled from consideration in a Senate Health Professions Subcommittee hearing—a major win for CRNAs and patient access to care.
Advancing the Case for Independent CRNA Practice
Perhaps the most encouraging development came from the same JCHC report, which included a policy option to phase out CRNA supervision requirements entirely. The report acknowledged that easing supervision “presents a low risk of harm to patients and a possible benefit to the anesthesia workforce.” This validation supports VANA’s long-standing push for modernization.
Building on that momentum, Del. Sickles introduced legislation in early 2025 to remove supervision requirements. Although the bill was later withdrawn, it spurred advocacy and discussion in the House of Delegates. Importantly, the bill and its supporters helped keep the conversation alive and in the spotlight. VANA is looking forward to working with Del. Sickles in the months ahead to keep the momentum moving forward.
Educating Lawmakers, One Conversation at a Time
VANA’s strength lies not only in legislation, but in education and relationships. Throughout 2024 and into 2025, members welcomed lawmakers to simulation labs and medical facilities, providing first-hand demonstrations of CRNA care. These events allowed legislators to ask questions directly and gain a deeper understanding of how CRNAs practice—and how burdensome supervision can be.
At the same time, members of our Government Relations Committee conducted targeted outreach to health-focused legislators in both chambers, helping to build strong, long-term relationships that will be critical for future progress.
Looking Ahead
While both HB 1647 (AA licensure) and HB 2391 (removal of CRNA supervision) were not approved in subcommittee this session, VANA is already working with the sponsor of HB 2391 to bring it back stronger in 2026. The groundwork laid this year—through research, relationship-building, and mobilization—puts us in a strong position moving forward.
As we close out the 2025 session, one thing is clear: VANA members showed up. We made our voices heard. And we will continue to fight for a future where CRNAs can practice to the full extent of their education and training.
Thank you for your commitment to advancing our profession and protecting patient access to safe, high-quality anesthesia care during the 2025 session of the General Assembly.
