The resolution urges the U.S. Department of Education to include nursing degree programs in the list of professional degree programs eligible for higher federal student loan limits. Currently, proposed federal regulations would exclude nursing programs from this designation, which would significantly limit borrowing options for nursing students. This is particularly concerning given the ongoing nursing shortage in the United States, with New Jersey projected to face a deficit of over 24,000 nurses by 2036. The resolution highlights the critical role that nursing professionals play in patient care and the healthcare system, emphasizing that limiting access to financial resources for nursing education could exacerbate the existing challenges in healthcare delivery.

The New Jersey Legislature calls for a revision of the definition of professional degree programs to ensure that nursing students can access the same higher borrowing limits as other professional degree students. The resolution points out that more than 260,000 students are currently enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs, and another 42,000 in Associate Degree in Nursing programs, all of whom would be affected by the proposed changes. By advocating for this inclusion, the resolution aims to support the nursing workforce and address the impending healthcare crisis, ensuring that future nurses can obtain the necessary education and training to meet the demands of the profession.