On May 23, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act, legislation aimed at renewing and strengthening federal nursing workforce programs. The bill is sponsored in the Senate by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN).  

Title VIII programs have historically provided critical support to nursing education, workforce development, and retention initiatives. These programs include grants, scholarships, and loan repayment options that are essential for addressing nurse shortages and ensuring quality healthcare, especially in underserved areas. The Title VIII programs were last reauthorized through September 30, 2025, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in March 2020. This reauthorization seeks to modernize programs and extend funding authorization, reflecting the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape. 

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Kylee Childs
Kylee Childs, MSW, is the Director of Government Affairs.Since joining the association in 2023, she continues to be a fierce and resourceful advocate for aging services in Kansas. Her professional focus has always been service to others through advocacy. Kylee has a master’s degree in social work from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a bachelor's degree in criminology with a minor in Conflict Analysis and Trauma studies from Kansas State University, and a certificate in Grant Proposal Writing from Fort Hays State University. With a professional background in law enforcement and child welfare, and a successful 2023 legislative practicum with the Children's Alliance of Kansas, she brings rich professional experience to her role as Director of Government Affairs, and a front-line perspective on the needs of health and human services providers in our state. When not working, she's spending time with her two daughters. You can reach Kylee directly at 785.670.8051.