Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB4088

Introduced
4/9/24  

Caption

Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act

Impact

Under this legislation, eligible entities such as hospitals, community organizations, and educational institutions will be able to apply for grants to create programs aimed at providing essential support services. These include individualized career counseling, mentorship, licensing assistance, and tailored educational opportunities. Such provisions are intended to address workforce shortages and improve healthcare delivery, especially in underserved areas by leveraging the diverse skills of internationally educated professionals.

Summary

SB4088, titled the 'Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act,' proposes a comprehensive approach to addressing the integration of internationally educated healthcare professionals into the U.S. healthcare system. The bill mandates that the Secretary of Health and Human Services award grants targeted at supporting these professionals as they transition into the American workforce. Such support would not only provide direct career assistance to individuals but also suggest wider system-level improvements to facilitate the acclimatization process for these skilled workers.

Contention

The bill's introduction has sparked discussions regarding its potential impact on local healthcare systems and the integration of diverse healthcare professionals into established norms. While proponents argue that this act will enhance workforce diversity and address critical shortages, opponents may question the adequacy of resources allocated, the potential displacement of locally trained healthcare workers, and concerns over the quality of care provided by newly integrated professionals. The balance between meeting urgent workforce needs and maintaining rigorous professional standards will likely be a focal point of debate as the bill moves through legislative review.

Companion Bills

US HB7907

Same As Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act

Previously Filed As

US HB7907

Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act

US SB4120

Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act

US HB7994

Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act

US HB7307

Health Care Workforce Innovation Act of 2024

US HB6655

A Stronger Workforce for America Act

US SB4957

Health Workforce Innovation Act

US HB8056

Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act

US HB9812

Health Care Workforce Investment Act

US HB8602

WPA Act Workforce Promotion and Access Act

US HB935

Health Care Workforce Innovation Act of 2025

Similar Bills

US HB7907

Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act

US HB3732

Professional’s Access to Health Workforce Integration Act of 2023

AZ SB1563

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OR SB849

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OR SB476

Relating to professional workforce; and declaring an emergency.

US HB9413

Bureau of International Labor Affairs Authorization Act

CA ACR130

Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day.

US SB5327

Sudan Accountability Act