This bill establishes the Center for Nursing Equity and Excellence at the University of Minnesota, aimed at addressing nursing workforce needs, including health equity, recruitment, retention, and utilization of nursing resources. The center will collaborate with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and is tasked with developing a strategic statewide plan for nursing workforce supply, maintaining databases on nursing supply and demand, and making recommendations to enhance nurse faculty and clinical preceptor support. Additionally, the center will pilot innovative projects, promote recognition for nursing excellence, and convene various stakeholders to evaluate and report on its efforts.

To support the center, the bill includes a provision for the Board of Nursing to request voluntary contributions from applicants during the licensure process, with the collected funds directed to the center. Furthermore, the center is required to submit an annual report detailing its activities to the governor and relevant legislative committees starting in 2025. The bill appropriates $250,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2025 to assist in establishing and operating the center.