Bill > SB5335

This bill establishes the rural nursing education program to address the critical shortage of nurses in rural and underserved communities in Washington State. The program aims to create a sustainable solution to the nursing workforce challenges by developing a "grow-your-own" approach that supports local students in becoming registered nurses who will work in their rural communities. The bill recognizes key barriers facing rural nursing students, such as lack of affordable child care, transportation difficulties, and limited internet access, and seeks to overcome these challenges through a collaborative approach involving academic institutions, healthcare partners, and local communities. The program will offer distance nursing education initially focusing on associate degree prelicensure education, with selection criteria prioritizing students who intend to serve in rural areas. Participating hospitals and higher education institutions will work together to recruit and support potential nursing students, develop innovative educational models, and create unique clinical experiences. The department will track and report on the program's progress, including participant demographics, program completion rates, and employment outcomes in rural communities. The bill is designed to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is intended to help rural healthcare facilities reduce their reliance on expensive traveling nurses and build a more stable, locally-trained nursing workforce.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5335&Year=2025&Initiative=false