The Nurse Education Capacity Expansion Grant Program Act establishes a grant program within the Department of Community and Economic Development aimed at increasing the capacity of accredited nursing education programs in Pennsylvania. The program is designed to support nursing schools that meet specific eligibility criteria, including accreditation by the State Board of Nursing, a minimum graduation rate of 70%, and a pass rate of at least 80% on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Eligible programs can receive grants up to $500,000, which can be used for various purposes such as hiring new faculty, enhancing faculty compensation, providing scholarships for faculty development, and improving clinical partnerships.

The Department of Community and Economic Development is tasked with developing a standard application and guidelines for the program, with a focus on prioritizing applications from nursing schools that serve underrepresented student populations or underserved communities. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its enactment.