DeLauro Calls for Support of Connecticut Nursing Program

Washington, DC— Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) sent a letter today to Governor Jodi Rell, expressing her support for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) adult education program. This critical program is at risk of losing its funding.

The program, which has existed in Connecticut technical high school system for over 60 years, helps the state maintain an adequate supply of nurses and provides an important educational opportunity for Connecticut residents who may not be able to afford other training options, and serves as a stepping stone for additional training such as an RN degree or other higher education.

The text of the letter is below.

December 16, 2009

The Honorable M. Jodi Rell Governor of Connecticut Executive Chambers State Capitol Hartford, Connecticut 06106

Dear Governor Rell: I write to express my concern about your proposed suspension of the state-sponsored Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) adult education program in the technical high school system, which would effectively end a highly successful medical certification program that has existed in Connecticut for more than 60 years. By 2010, Connecticut will be short more than 11,000 registered nurses. And by 2020, that number is projected to double, leaving Connecticut with fewer than half the nurses it needs, according to a report by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This program not only helps to ensure that our state maintains an adequate supply of nurses, a goal that is all the more important as our population ages and more of our citizens need skilled care to prevent and manage chronic conditions; it also provides an important educational opportunity for Connecticut residents who may not be able to afford other training options, and serves as a stepping stone for additional training such as an RN degree or other higher education.

I understand the serious difficulties faced by Connecticut and all states in the current economic environment, and have been a strong proponent of increasing federal support to the states to shore up critical services since the recession began in 2007. As you move forward through the budget process, I urge you to ensure that all potential options are considered to maintain important programs like this one.

Very sincerely yours,

Rosa L. DeLauro Member of Congress