The bill aims to address the nursing workforce shortage in Washington by reducing barriers and expanding educational opportunities for aspiring nurses. It establishes several new initiatives, including a plan for community and technical colleges to increase nursing training capacity, the development of an online curriculum for licensed practical nursing, and a pilot program for home care aides transitioning to licensed practical nurses. Additionally, the bill mandates a marketing plan to promote nursing training opportunities, a salary survey for nurse educators, and the expansion of the student nurse preceptor grant program to incentivize clinical supervision in high-need areas.

Key amendments to existing laws include provisions that allow the nursing commission to approve baccalaureate nursing education programs even if the nurse administrator does not hold a doctoral degree, and the introduction of rules that permit simulated learning to count towards clinical placement hours. The bill also establishes grant programs to support high school health science programs and pilot projects in rural hospitals to engage high school students in nursing careers. These initiatives are designed to enhance the nursing workforce, particularly in underserved and rural communities, and to streamline the training process for future nurses.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.79.150, 18.79.110, 28A.150.260, 43.62.050
Substitute Bill: 18.79.150, 18.79.110, 28A.150.260, 43.62.050
Second Substitute: 18.79.150, 18.79.110
Engrossed Second Substitute: 18.79.150, 18.79.110
Bill as Passed Legislature: 18.79.150, 18.79.110
Session Law: 18.79.150, 18.79.110