Nursing Shortage Legislation and Strategies

Congress has introduced bills and other initiatives to alleviate the shortage, including:

The Nurse Reinvestment Act – President Bush signed this legislation on Aug. 1, 2002. This law provides authority for nursing-student scholarships and loan repayments, and public service announcements to promote nursing. Also included are authority for stipends and other supports, grants to promote the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) “Magnet” program criteria for best practices for nursing administration, funding for faculty development, and career ladder programs.

The Registered Nurse Safe Staffing Act of 2005 (S. 71) and Quality Nursing Care Act of 2005 (H.R. 1372) – This proposed legislation allows for the development of staffing systems that require the input of direct care RNs and provides for whistler-protection for RNs who speak out about patient care issues. Sponsored by Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-HI) in the Senate and Rep. Louis Capps (D-CA) and Robert Simmons (R-CT) in the House, these bills were introduced at the urging of ANA in response to the current nursing crisis.

Safe Nursing and Patient Care Act of 2005 (S. 351 and H.R. 791) – companion legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives that would strictly limit the practice of forcing nurses to work overtime. (For details, see the February 10, 2005 press release posted below.)

Formation of the Congressional Nursing Caucus – a bi-partisan initiative, co-chaired by U.S. Reps. Lois Capps (D-CA) and Steven LaTourette (R-OH). The purpose of the caucus is to educate Congress on all aspects of the nursing profession and how nursing issues impact the delivery of safe, quality care. The caucus was formed after consultation between congressional leaders and ANA.

Strategies to Reverse the New Nursing Shortage:

Today’s Nursing Workforce – At a Glance