SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 17 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the state's certified registered nurse anesthetists and to join them in celebrating January 24 through 30, 2021, as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists Week in Texas; and WHEREAS, Certified registered nurse anesthetists are advanced practice registered nurses who play an essential role in our health care system; they are the sole anesthesia providers in the majority of rural Texas counties and the primary providers of anesthesia care to United States military personnel; and WHEREAS, Nurse anesthetists work across a broad spectrum of medical settings, and they administer anesthetics to millions of patients each year; their expertise is a vital part of care in traditional surgical environments and in a wide range of other medical facilities, including general practice offices and specialty clinics; and WHEREAS, Among the nation's most trusted health care professionals, nurse anesthetists are the first nursing specialty group to be accorded direct reimbursement rights by Medicare; and WHEREAS, Texas is home to nearly 5,000 nurse anesthetists who have devoted their careers to serving the citizens of the Lone Star State; it is truly fitting that a week be set aside to honor their many contributions to the health and well-being of Texans; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, hereby commend all those who serve as certified registered nurse anesthetists in Texas for the important role they play in the provision of quality health care and extend to them best wishes for a memorable Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists Week in Texas; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of these dedicated health care specialists. Kolkhorst ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 9, 2021. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate