Tucson Standard

U.S. Representatives Juan Ciscomani and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez have received endorsement from the Problem Solvers Caucus for their proposed legislation aimed at addressing the national nursing workforce shortage. The bill, known as the Grants for Resources in Occupational Workforce Training for Healthcare (GROWTH) Act (H.R. 6078), seeks to expand access to funding for nursing programs at community, Tribal, and junior colleges.

The GROWTH Act proposes expanding eligibility for the Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention–Pathway to Registered Nurse Program (NEPQR). This expansion would allow up to 50% of total funds to be allocated to community colleges or partnerships with these institutions. Currently, most grants are directed towards traditional four-year institutions.

Ciscomani emphasized the importance of this initiative: "The national nursing workforce shortage is affecting health facilities across the United States and could lead to a lower standard of care." He highlighted his personal connection as a graduate of Pima Community College and expressed pride in advocating for equal opportunities between two-year and four-year educational institutions.

Gluesenkamp Perez pointed out the impact on rural communities: “Rural communities like mine are facing a hollowing out of healthcare providers and critical workforce shortages.” She noted that by supporting local students pursuing nursing careers, access to care can be expanded while providing career opportunities.

Brian Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, stated: "Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system... With a nursing shortage looming, this legislation is vital to the health of our communities." His colleague Josh Gottheimer added: “We cannot allow emergency rooms and hospitals to be forced to turn away people seeking help... The GROWTH Act will be critical in addressing the nursing shortage.”

In addition to bipartisan support from Congress members within the Problem Solvers Caucus, organizations such as American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and Families USA also back this legislative effort.