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B 26-0097

Universal Public School Nurses for Safer Students Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

DC bill requires all public schools employ at least one full-time nurse to improve student health services and emergency medical response capacity in schools.

Notice of Intent to Act on B26-0097 Published in the District of Columbia Register
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Bill Summary · B 26-0097

Legislative bill overview

Bill B 26-0097 would establish a requirement for universal public school nurses in all District of Columbia public schools, ensuring at least one nurse is present in each school building. The bill aims to improve student health services, emergency response capabilities, and overall school safety by mandating consistent nursing coverage across the district's public education system.

Why is this important

School nurses provide critical health services including managing chronic conditions, administering medications, responding to medical emergencies, and identifying health issues that affect academic performance. Currently, DC public schools have inconsistent nursing coverage, leaving some schools without dedicated health professionals during the school day, which can delay emergency response and leave vulnerable students without necessary care.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget and staffing costs: Implementing universal nursing coverage requires significant public funding to hire, train, and retain qualified nurses district-wide, raising questions about budget priorities and implementation timelines
  • Nurse shortage realities: The nursing profession faces nationwide recruitment and retention challenges; DC may struggle to fill all positions, potentially delaying implementation or requiring competitive salary adjustments
  • Definition of "universal coverage": Unclear whether one nurse per school is sufficient for larger schools, how coverage extends to multiple campuses, and what happens during absences or vacancies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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