Joyce Re-Introduces Legislation to Improve Nursing Workforce Development Programs

Provides enhanced opportunities for those interested in a career in nursing

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14) re-introduced his Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act to improve programs and grants that support the recruitment and retention of professionals for our nation’s nursing workforce. Dave re-introduced this bipartisan legislation, which unanimously passed the House last year, with Representative Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02). Dave and Rep. Gabbard serve as the co-chairs of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. Representatives Rodney Davis (IL-07), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Doris Matsui (CA-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and David McKinley (WV-01) have also signed on to the bill as original cosponsors.

“With our nation being on the verge of a nursing shortage, we need to do all we can to ensure those who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing have access to the high-quality education and training opportunities necessary to do so,” said Dave. “As the proud husband of a nurse, I can personally attest to the dedication nurses put into caring for their patients and am proud to re-introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure they have the support they need to continue as the backbone of our health care system.”

“Too often, nurses are unsung heroes who provide life-saving care to our communities in the most trying and stressful times,” said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. “As our country faces an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, an ever-worsening opioid epidemic, and so much more, our healthcare workers must have the training and support needed to care for our people. Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure that nurses in Hawai‘i and across the country have the education, training, and support they need to continue their service.”

Title VIII programs directly invest in our nation’s health by addressing specific needs within the nursing workforce and America’s patient population. Importantly, these programs also provide targeted support for institutions that educate nurses for practice in rural and medically underserved communities, bolstering nursing education at all levels, from entry-level to graduate study.

“From education to recruitment to retention, the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act ensures that nurses across the country are available to provide high-quality, patient-centered healthcare in their communities, including rural and underserved areas,” said Dr. Deborah Trautman, AACN President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to collaborating with our Congressional champions and moving this legislation forward.”

“Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization is essential to preparing the next generation of nurses and the faculty who educate them,” said Dr. Ann Cary, Chair of the Board of Directors for the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “We commend the bipartisan efforts of our nursing champions in the House of Representatives for introducing and advancing this important legislation.”

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