Monday, April 6, 2009

Nurse Day at the Capitol 2009


March 3, 2009
Local nurses of Victoria and surrounding areas attended Nurse Day at the Capital 2009! Specific legislation that Texas-based nursing organizations support was discussed with various State Senators and State Representatives. The Texas Nurses Association is in support of the Safe Hospital Staffing bill SB 476 by Senator Jane Nelson and HB 591 by Representative Donna Howard and Susan King.
Another important issue is addressing the school nurses dilemma which would allow-“No School Nurse on Campus” Notification to parents in SB 158 by Senator Rodney Ellis and HB 151 by Rep. Garnet Coleman.
The reality of the nursing workforce shortage is lived daily and a real solution of increased funding for nursing programs, like UHV’s School of Nursing, and across the state is sought. Coalition Appropriations Request SB 1 by Senator Steve Ogden and HB 1 by Jim Pitts address this issue.
Our very own Senator Glenn Hegar is a strong supporter of nurses in Texas along with our Representative Geanie Morrison. We are grateful and appreciative for the time they have dedicated to us in actively listening to the nurses from their respective districts. For more information on the nursing coalition request visit www.texasneednurses.org
The following individuals participated in Texas' 18th District visit with Senator Hegar on March 3, 2009, Nurse Day at the Capitol (listed in alphabetical order): Julie Cordova, Blanche de Leon, Denise McMahan, Marianna Measom, Vanaja Nair, Yves Senat, Deidra Teoh, Jusy Wagner-Pullin, and Kimberly Walford.