There are not enough nurse graduates to fill the growing demand, let alone replace the nurses who are retiring. With an insufficient nurse base, it is highly unlikely there will be sufficient CRNAs to fill the need in the future.
If the ONLY way we CRNAs can compete in the market place is by keeping the supply short, then we as CRNAs are not doing a service to society. I say let the AAs come. If they are good providers, that will free up more CRNAs for the rural hospitals. IF they are not good providers, they will not be around for long. Either way, let the market place decide, not a fence bill designed to restrict practice and raise salaries.