House Labor and Industry Committee Approves Bill to Address Pennsylvania Nursing Shortage
Legislation aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania’s nursing workforce was approved today by the House Labor and Industry Committee.
The bill, H.B. 1676, introduced by state Representative Bridget Kosierowski, responds to a growing nursing shortage in the state.
A recent survey by the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania found that about 14 percent of nursing positions remain unfilled, with projections estimating a shortfall of 20,000 nurses by 2026.
Kosierowski highlighted the critical role nurses play in healthcare and the challenges caused by high stress, burnout, and impending retirements.
The bill proposes the creation of the Nursing Shortage Assistance Program within the Department of Labor and Industry, offering grants to help nursing students with employment after graduation and student loan repayment.
Funding for the program would come from a proposed $5 million investment in the 2025-26 state budget by Governor Josh Shapiro.
A pilot version of the program is currently underway at several health systems, including Temple Health and Geisinger.
The legislation now moves to the full House of Representatives for further consideration.