Board Approves Texas Nurses Foundation for $1M Peer Assistant Program Contract

The Texas Board of Nursing convened on July 17, 2025, to discuss a significant contract that will impact the support services available to nurses across the state. The board is seeking approval to renew its partnership with the Texas Nurses Foundation for peer assistance program services, a vital resource aimed at helping nurses navigate personal and professional challenges.

Brian Miller, the board's assistant general counsel, presented the proposal, highlighting that the current contract with the Texas Nurses Foundation is set to expire on August 31, 2025. To ensure continuity of these essential services, the board initiated a competitive bidding process earlier this year. An RFP (Request for Proposals) was issued on May 28, 2025, with a closing date for submissions on June 27, 2025. The process aimed to attract a wide range of vendors, but ultimately, only the Texas Nurses Foundation submitted a proposal.

The evaluation committee reviewed the submission and confirmed that it met all necessary requirements as outlined in the government code and procurement guidelines. Given that the contract exceeds $1 million, board approval is required to finalize the agreement.

This decision is crucial for Texas nurses, as the peer assistance program provides critical support, helping them manage stress, mental health issues, and other challenges that can arise in their demanding profession. By renewing this contract, the board aims to ensure that nurses have access to the resources they need to maintain their well-being and continue providing quality care to patients.

As the board moves forward with this approval, it underscores its commitment to supporting the nursing community in Texas, addressing both immediate needs and long-term professional health. The next steps will involve finalizing the contract and ensuring that the services are in place before the current agreement concludes.