The Health Subcommittee of the Tennessee State Legislature convened on March 26, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding the nursing workforce shortage in the state. A significant focus of the meeting was the introduction of House Bill 865, which aims to enhance the pipeline of nursing professionals through innovative educational partnerships.

During the session, it was highlighted that Ballad Health has secured a $15 million grant to collaborate with local educational institutions, including Northeast State Community College, Walter State Community College, and East Tennessee State University (ETSU). This initiative is designed to create a pathway for high school students interested in nursing, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and prepare for licensure exams before they graduate.

The proposed legislation will enable students who meet specific graduation criteria to begin working towards their Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification prior to their senior year. This approach is expected to produce career-ready graduates equipped to fill nursing positions within Ballad Health facilities, thereby addressing the pressing workforce shortage in Northeast Tennessee.

The committee voted unanimously in favor of advancing House Bill 865, with nine members supporting the bill and none opposing it. The bill will now proceed to the next stage in the legislative process.

In addition to House Bill 865, the meeting included discussions on other amendments and bills, although specific details on those were not elaborated during this session. The overall emphasis remains on strengthening the healthcare workforce through educational initiatives and community partnerships.