The Florida House of Representatives has introduced House Bill 919, a significant piece of legislation aimed at reforming nursing education programs in the state. Proposed on April 17, 2025, the bill seeks to address concerns regarding the quality and effectiveness of nursing programs, particularly in light of declining graduate passage rates on licensure exams.

The main provisions of House Bill 919 establish a framework for monitoring nursing education programs that fall below the required graduate passage rate. Under the bill, programs that do not meet these standards will be placed on probation and must submit a written remediation plan to the Florida Board of Nursing. If a program fails to comply with the remediation requirements or does not improve its passage rates within a specified timeframe, it risks losing its accreditation. Notably, the bill stipulates that educational institutions with programs on probation will be barred from submitting applications for new nursing programs.

Debate surrounding House Bill 919 has highlighted concerns about the potential impact on nursing workforce availability, as some fear that stricter regulations could lead to a reduction in the number of nursing graduates. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to ensure that nursing programs maintain high educational standards, ultimately benefiting patient care and safety.

The implications of this legislation are significant. Experts suggest that while the bill aims to enhance the quality of nursing education, it could also exacerbate existing shortages in the nursing workforce if programs are forced to close due to probationary status. The bill's proponents emphasize the need for accountability in nursing education, arguing that improved passage rates will lead to better-prepared nurses entering the workforce.

As House Bill 919 moves through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain. Stakeholders from various sectors, including educational institutions and healthcare providers, are closely monitoring developments, as the outcomes could reshape nursing education in Florida for years to come.