Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB3352

Introduced
1/26/22  

Caption

Relating To Nursing.

Impact

The primary action proposed by SB3352 is the appropriation of $1,800,000 from the state's general revenues for the fiscal year 2022-2023. These funds are intended to enhance the capacity of the University of Hawaii not only to train new nurses but also to align nursing workforce projections with industry demands. This strategic funding is positioned to bolster nursing education and improve the overall quality of healthcare services by ensuring a well-trained nursing workforce.

Summary

SB3352 aims to address the critical shortage of nurses in Hawaii exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill recognizes the dire need for qualified nursing staff and highlights the ongoing challenges related to the scarcity of nursing faculty. Specifically, it notes that many nursing schools in Hawaii are struggling with high vacancy rates among instructors, which hinders the education and training of new nurses who are crucial for effective healthcare delivery during this public health crisis.

Contention

While the bill is framed as essential for improving nursing education, there may be differing opinions regarding the allocation of funds and the effectiveness of state intervention in educational domains. Some stakeholders may advocate for alternative methods of addressing faculty shortages or emphasize the need for broader reforms in healthcare education. However, a consensus remains on the pressing need to expand the nursing workforce, given the alarming vacancy rates threatening healthcare outcomes.

Companion Bills

HI HB2220

Same As Relating To Nursing.

Similar Bills

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD SB360

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD SB181

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

MD HB200

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

PA HB611

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB290

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2023)