1/21/16 NASN Releases 2016 Legislative Priorities

NASN Legislative Priorities for 2016

NASN supports a demonstration grant program to fund School Nurses based on Title I designation (free and reduced lunch and breakfast). Poverty is frequently an indicator of health needs. All students should be able to have their health needs safely met while in the school setting. The current reality is that students today have greater healthcare needs than in past generations. Children cannot meet their full potential with unmet heath needs. Members of Congress are urged to ensure that all children have access to a School Nurse.

NASN supports the Timely Mental Health for Foster Youth Act, S. 2166. This bill would require that each state provide an initial mental health screening within 30 days of entry into foster care, followed by a comprehensive assessment within 60 days, if an initial mental health issue is identified. According to the Department of health and Human Service, Office of Inspector General (HHS) (OIG) report children in foster care experience a high rate of chronic medical, developmental and mental health issues. HHS OIG found that not all children in foster care are receiving required health screenings or they receive them late.

NASN supports the final reauthorization funding for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) which provides vital health insurance for children. CHIP finances quality health coverage for more than eight million children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private health coverage. NASN has long supported CHIP and other programs that help ensure all children are covered by quality, affordable health insurance. Members of Congress are urge to extend CHIP funding until 2019.

Read more on: www.nasn.org