Future Advancement of Academic Nursing Act; FAAN Act
Summary
The Future Advancement of Academic Nursing Act (FAAN Act) aims to address nursing workforce shortages and enhance nursing education. It authorizes grants to schools of nursing for increasing student and faculty numbers, program enhancement, and infrastructure modernization, particularly in underserved areas. The bill also mandates reports to Congress on the activities and outcomes of these grants.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the FAAN Act would increase the number of nurses and improve the quality of nursing education, especially in underserved communities. This could lead to better healthcare access and preparedness for public health emergencies. The Act authorizes $1 billion in appropriations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased number of nursing professionals, addressing workforce shortages.
- Enhanced preparedness for public health emergencies and pandemics.
- Modernized nursing education programs and infrastructure.
- Improved healthcare access in medically underserved areas.
- Support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds in nursing programs.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient allocation of grant funds.
- Increased government spending, adding to the national debt.
- Possible administrative overhead in managing and overseeing the grant program.
- Risk that the program may not effectively address the root causes of nursing shortages.
- The benefits may not be evenly distributed across all regions.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The FAAN Act aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, which includes supporting healthcare and education. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).