NYSNA Statement on the DOE's Proposed Rule to Exclude Nursing from "Professional Degree" Programs

The New York State Nurses Association released this statement:

The Trump Department of Education's proposed rule to exclude nursing from "professional degree" programs could not come at a worse time. This proposal will limit access and make advanced practice nursing education less affordable at a time when we need more nurses to deliver safe patient care in New York State and throughout the country.

Advanced practice nurses provide essential primary care and improve public health. Limiting student loans and loan forgiveness programs will disincentivize nurses from entering the profession and lead to fewer highly trained nurses. Furthermore, the introduction of ideological tests for public loan forgiveness is in direct contradiction to the nursing code of ethics to do no harm and care for every patient, regardless of immigration status, gender identity or expression, or any protected category.

This proposal is an insult to the nurses who work hard day and night caring for patients with professionalism and skill and to those nurses seeking to advance their education. NYSNA vehemently opposes this proposed rule, which will cause more economic hardship for nurses and damage the future of the nursing workforce and our public health.