Political Quotes

“I am pleased to express support for H.R. 2759, the Health Professional Shortage Area Nursing Relief Act, introduced by my colleague the Honorable Bobby Rush. H.R. 2759 provides opportunities for institutions in medical manpower shortage areas to hire foreign trained nurses who have been granted special waivers to enter the country and work. Initially, I had some concerns about this bill due to reservations expressed by some nursing groups, especially the Chicago Chapter of the Black Nurses Association. However, after reading the bill and having discussions with Congressman Rush, I am convinced that there is little room for negative impact on opportunities for U.S. trained nurses who are available and ready to work in these special situations. This bill is well crafted, it has built in protections and should go a long way towards meeting concrete needs. Therefore, I commend the gentleman from Illinois, Mr. Rush, for entertaining a specific problem and finding a solution which will benefit one of our great community hospitals, St. Bernards in Chicago and other institutions experiencing similar problems throughout the Nation. I am pleased to support this well crafted legislation and congratulate Congressman Rush on his creativity and ingenuity.”