The Senate passed the finalized comprehensive opioid package today by a vote of 98-1, which includes a provision that would permanently authorize NPs and PAs to prescribe Medication-Assisted Treatments (MATs) and provide a five-year authorization for the other three APRN roles to prescribe MATs. The legislative package also includes student loan repayment for the substance use disorder workforce in areas of national need. The House passed the conferenced opioid package by a vote of 393-8.

AACN is pleased to unveil Nursing Voices, Nursing Votes, a nonpartisan initiative designed to encourage, educate, and engage nursing deans, faculty, and students as they amplify their voices during election season.

AACN applauds the United States House of Representatives for passing legislation that is indispensable to the health of the nation. The Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2017 (H.R. 959) provides critical support to nursing students, faculty, and programs, which ensures access to care across the continuum and in every community.