What legislation protects the public from individuals practicing nursing without a license?

The state's nurse practice act is the correct answer because it specifically provides the legal framework governing the practice of nursing within that state. This legislation outlines the requirements for obtaining a nursing license, the scope of practice, and the standards of care that nurses must adhere to. By establishing these laws, the nurse practice act protects the public by ensuring that only qualified individuals who have met the necessary education and training requirements are allowed to practice nursing.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes. For example, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) focuses on the privacy and security of patient information rather than licensing. The Nurse Licensure Compact facilitates nursing practice across state lines but does not directly address unlicensed practice within a state. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 primarily deals with funding for healthcare and regulations regarding long-term care facilities, not the licensing of nursing professionals. Thus, while all these pieces of legislation are significant, the state's nurse practice act specifically addresses the prevention of unlicensed practice in nursing.