Bill > HB19

This bill aims to expand and modify the Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Nurses, broadening its scope and funding priorities to address nursing workforce shortages. The bill modifies the program to include nursing support staff and prioritize funding for nurses and support staff working in areas with identified healthcare workforce shortages or in medical specialties experiencing personnel deficits. It introduces new provisions that allow additional loan repayment assistance for nurses practicing in primary care or specialty areas with demonstrated shortages. The bill also makes changes to nursing education requirements, including clarifying definitions of entry-level nursing education programs and modifying licensure by endorsement criteria for registered nurses. Additionally, the legislation extends various sunset provisions related to nursing regulations from 2025 to 2030, effectively prolonging the validity of existing nursing-related statutes. The bill also includes technical modifications to nursing assistant certification categories and updates reporting and notification requirements for the State Board of Nursing. Overall, the legislation seeks to address nursing workforce challenges by providing financial incentives, streamlining educational pathways, and ensuring continued support for nursing professionals in Maryland.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Health and Government Operations (H)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0019?ys=2025RS