Reverse Nursing Exclusion from Professional Degree Status in OBBBA Implementation

I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the U.S. Department of Education's decision to exclude nursing from the revised definition of "professional degree" programs in the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). This exclusion is not only unjust but also threatens to exacerbate the already critical nursing shortage in our country. The reclassification of nursing degrees will have severe consequences for graduate nursing students' access to federal loans and loan forgiveness programs. By capping undergraduate loans, eliminating the GRAD PLUS program, and limiting the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) to only "professional" degree students, we are creating insurmountable financial barriers for those pursuing advanced nursing education. It is alarming that nursing has been singled out while other healthcare fields such as medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry retain their professional status. This decision appears to disproportionately affect a field dominated by women and minorities, raising serious questions about equity and fairness in our education system. The American Nurses Association (ANA) and American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) have rightly pointed out that nursing meets all criteria for a professional discipline. Ignoring this fact not only undermines the status of nursing but also hinders progress towards parity across health professions. The timing of this decision is particularly troubling given the current healthcare landscape. We are facing a significant nursing shortage, and this change, set to be implemented on July 1, 2026, will only worsen the situation. It will deter prospective students, especially those from underrepresented or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, from pursuing advanced nursing degrees. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse this decision. We need to ensure that nursing is rightfully included in the definition of professional degree programs under the OBBBA. This is not just about maintaining the status of nursing; it's about safeguarding the future of our healthcare system and ensuring equitable access to education in critical healthcare fields. The consequences of inaction are severe. Without intervention, we risk compromising the quality and accessibility of healthcare for all Americans. I implore you to address this issue with the utmost urgency and work towards a solution that recognizes nursing's vital role in our healthcare system.