AAACN's Legislative Team Endorses H.R. 728, Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2019

Per the NCC, the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2019 strengthens the future of the nursing profession and of health care in communities throughout the country. This legislation reauthorizes the Health Resources and Services Administration's Nursing Workforce Development Programs, which have helped meet our nation's healthcare needs, particularly in underserved areas.

These programs champion nursing education at all levels, support institutions that educate future nurses, assist with maintaining the nursing workforce, and are critical to ensuring the demand for nursing care is met. Nurses supported through these programs go on to provide high-quality, evidence-based practice to patients in a variety of settings.

Nurses who have benefitted from these programs are then equipped to provide high-quality, evidence-based practice to patients in a wide array of settings.

Statement on the Introduction of Title VIII Reauthorization in the House:
The Nursing Community Coalition released a statement on the introduction of the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2019 (H.R. 728), a first step in the legislative process. This statement also reiterated that passage of Title VIII Reauthorization is a top priority of the coalition as it supports the Nursing Workforce Development Programs and secures future investments for America's health.

Thank You Letter for Introducing Title VIII Reauthorization in the House:
Forty-One member organizations signed onto a letter thanking Representatives David Joyce (R-OH), Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Rodney Davis (R-IL), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), David McKinley (R-WV), and Lauren Underwood (D-IL), for introducing Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2019 (H.R.728). Forty-one member organizations also signed on as supporters of Title VIII Reauthorization on the House fact sheet.

AAACN has also recently signed on to the following Nursing Community Coalition welcome letter sent to all members of the 116th Congress:

  • Welcome Letter to the 116th Congress: This letter highlighted the coalition's work, core principles, and commitment to improve care delivery models that support a long-term sustainable health care system and includes strong nursing education, research, and practice programs.
  • Welcome letters to the 116th Congress: Representatives | Senators.

Support for AHRQ
AAACN is also a member of the Friends of AHRQ , a voluntary coalition of more than 250 organizations that support the continued funding of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The Legislative Team has recently signed on to support a letter requesting funding for AHRQ, recognizing the important role the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Trust Fund plays in AHRQ's program level budget, and that the Trust Fund is up for reauthorization this year.

Advocacy in Motion
When there are urgent issues happening in Washington, or major legislation being considered, NCC emails members a letter and background information. If a response is needed from AAACN, the Legislative Team formulates feedback and a response. If team members agree that the issue is aligned with AAACN's mission, the letter is forwarded to the BOD for final approval to sign on.

View AAACN's Legislative Involvement

The image is of the Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C.