NURSE Act

The NURSE Act (S 3953) creates a federal grant program to help public schools hire more school nurses, specifically targeting schools serving high-need communities. It prioritizes schools where at least 20% of students qualify for free school lunches (indicating higher poverty levels) and gives priority to districts with no nurses or the greatest student health needs. The program covers up to 75% of hiring costs for the first year, with the federal share gradually decreasing over time to encourage long-term local funding. This aims to address the current shortage - where nearly two-thirds of schools lack full-time nurses - by supporting student health services, chronic disease management, and mental health support directly in schools.