Congressman Joyce Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Honor National Nurses Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Dave Joyce (R-OH-14), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) introduced a resolution honoring and celebrating National Nurses Week, recognized annually from May 6th to May 12th. U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) also introduced this resolution in the Senate.

This resolution recognizes the importance of the role nurses have played in our healthcare system and their impact on people at every stage of life. It encourages our communities to observe National Nurses Week and recognize the importance of nurses to patients and doctors across the country.

“The nursing community’s tireless work and advocacy for patients keep our healthcare system running. As the husband of a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how much pride they take in providing top-notch care for patients,” said Congressman Joyce, Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. “I’m proud to introduce this resolution and will continue working with my colleagues in Congress to implement common-sense policies that strengthen support for nurses and improve access and affordability across our healthcare system.”

“This National Nurses Week, we celebrate the valuable contributions of our nursing workforce and call attention to the obstacles and challenges nurses face every day. Nurses provide essential, dedicated care across the country, and we must support their work while helping more people enter the field. As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Nursing Caucus, I will continue to advocate for policies nurses and aspiring nurses need, including affordable higher education,” said Congresswoman Bonamici, Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus.

Congresswoman Kiggans, Vice Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, said, “Our nation’s nurses are on the frontlines of healthcare every day. My experience as a geriatric nurse practitioner shaped my commitment to this profession and deepened my respect for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. During National Nurses Week, we recognize not only their service, but their critical role in strengthening our healthcare system. I am proud to share their voices in Congress, and I look forward to continuing to work to ensure our nurses have the support they deserve.” 

“As the husband of a nurse, I’ve seen how difficult nurses’ jobs are and how important they are to patients,” said Senator Merkley, Co-Chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus. “In every corner of Oregon, nurses offer vital care, support, and advocacy to patients and their families during challenging times. Let’s pause this week to express gratitude for and honor the nurses in our communities for their unwavering skill, commitment, and compassion. We must remain dedicated to providing them with the support necessary to continue their life-saving work.” 

“Nurses are essential to our nation’s health care system,” said Senator Wicker, Co-Chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus. “They ensure patients receive timely and quality care, and their dedication is unmatched. Our country needs more of these heroes, and I hope more young people will consider joining the nursing profession. This resolution is a small token of our gratitude for their service.”

###