Considering a move to Texas and transferring my monitoring contract...am I crazy??

[LilRedRN1973]

So we recently found out that my husband's ex wife is up and moving out of state. One of the only reasons we have stayed in our current state is because moving out of state would have meant a ridiculously expensive and drawn out court battle (my husband has physical custody). Now that she is moving halfway across the country (close to TX, as a matter of fact), we will be free to move elsewhere if we want. I have wanted to move back to my home state of Texas for a while now, especially since the cost of living here is ridiculous and we have the one of the worst economies in the nation (I currently reside in Nevada). I do have a job I love, working for the state in an outpatient psychiatric facility and my husband has been at his job for about 10 years now, also working for the state. We are facing possible HUGE budget cuts next summer, particularly the prison system (where he works), up to 30%. So with the ex now out of the equation, we are looking at a move back to Houston (the outskirts, where I grew up). The cost of living is less and I would make about the same as I do here, provided I could get a job.

I have heard horror stories of TPAPN and since I've never had any problems with my monitoring program, I DOES make me hesitant to even consider transferring to Texas' monitoring program! I called them today and they were very friendly. Apparently, I have to apply for a Texas license first, at which point they will refer me to TPAPN. The requirements are a little different than here and their monitoring program is a LOT shorter (2 years vs. 5 years). I don't know exactly how it works. I have missed my old home state and think about moving there a lot over the years, but it's never been a possibility because of my stepkids' mother. Now that we wouldn't have to go through an ugly court battle, there is a chance I could return "home". Or should we just wait until my contract is over here in NV (Mar 2014)? Obviously, there would be many steps involved, from getting a license to getting set up with TPAPN, to making sure I can get a job, etc. Hubby has about $30k in his PERS here and would be able to finish using his GI Bill to get his Bachelor's degree while pulling about $1400/month. It's a lot and I'm also hesitant because my focus is putting my sobriety first and obviously moving would mean leaving behind a HUGE group of support folks I've grown to love and cherish. Also, the TPAPN representative I spoke with said they don't have nurse support groups there, which would be a big change for me, as I attend one weekly right now. I wouldn't have my weekly Aftercare, etc. A LOT of changes. Any and all advice would be GREATLY appreciated!!!! I've learned over the past couple of years in recovery to always, always check with others before making decisions and especially to ask others in recovery because my ideas aren't always the "best"!

[jackstem]

You might want to consult with a license defense attorney in Texas to find out all the ins and outs of the program, the possible differences, and the hoops involved in obtaining your Texas license with all of the stuff going on in Nevada.

Could be well worth the consultation fee.

Good luck!

Jack

[Grateful RN]

I started my diversion program in Arizona for a year, before moving to California. Its do-able, but very difficult. California is making me start my time over, and I have to fill out paperwork for both states each month. Arizona requires me to finish california's program before I officially finish theirs. But I still have to meet Arizona's requirements. Confusing, I know. Good luck with whatever you decide!

[luvche]

Personally, I would FIRST..get (In writing) the TPAPN requirements for completion from Texas. THEN, see if you can schedule a meeting with you CM from your California program to go over the list, and what would be required of you to complete THEIR's if you move. Get THOSE qualifications in writing.

Homework, Homework, Homework. Then weigh your pros and cons before making a decision.

I definately would not rely on word of mouth about what you would have to do, as some nurses may have different provisions in their contract than others. Good Luck!