OLR Bill Analysis

sHB 6336

AN ACT CONCERNING NURSES PURSUING ADVANCED DEGREES.

SUMMARY:

This bill authorizes the Department of Higher Education (DHE) to develop a graduate assistantship program for nurses enrolled as full- or part-time matriculated students in the Doctor of Education program for nursing education at Southern and Western Connecticut State universities. It must do so (1) in conjunction with the Board of Trustees of the Connecticut State University System and (2) by taking all feasible steps to maximize available federal funds for the program.

The bill authorizes the board of trustees to waive tuition for participating nurses (1) enrolled in the program full-time and (2) who provide at least 20 hours of teaching or research service at the universities. It authorizes the board to provide assistantship payments to participating nurses enrolled in the program as part-time matriculated students.

The bill also requires the Board of Governors of Higher Education to take all feasible steps to maximize available federal funds to establish a nursing program at Northwestern Connecticut Community College.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2009

COMMITTEE ACTION

Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute