WNA Policy And Advocacy: Voice For Nursing Profession.pdf

Overview:
The Wisconsin Nursing Association (WNA), a 111-year-old nursing organization with membership open to Registered Nurses in Wisconsin, acts as the voice and advocate for the nursing profession. Its mission is grounded in its core values. The association operates through a Board of Directors and several councils, including the Public Policy Council.

Public Policy Council:
- Comprised of 6-10 members elected or appointed by the Board.
- Develops the WNA Public Policy Agenda (PPA) for the Legislative Biennium, identifying priorities to advance nursing and ensure quality, safe patient care.
- Reviews and takes positions on proposed legislation based on the PPA, focusing on around 300 health-related bills introduced annually.

Government Affairs Program:
- Monitors the healthcare agenda of both legislative parties.
- Reviews legislative proposals, taking positions that may involve testimony at hearings.
- Collaborates with legislators to develop and pass legislation.
- Forms coalitions and hires a lobbyist to influence legislation.
- Launches grassroots campaigns and "Call to Action" initiatives.
- Educates nurses and nursing students about policy matters.
- Communicates with members regarding legislative updates.

Legislative Priorities for the Next Biennium:
1. APRN Modernization Act: Separate licensure for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), including NP, CNS, CRNA, and CNM.
2. Nurse Educator Funding: State funding for scholarships and loan forgiveness programs to attract MSN, DNP, and PhD nurses into education roles, included in the 2021-2023 Wisconsin State Budget.
3. Public Health Infrastructure: Reinvesting funds in public health departments to enhance their capacity to handle public health emergencies, prevention, and population health.

Getting Involved:
- Attendees were informed about the importance of nurse awareness of healthcare policies affecting patient care.
- The presentation highlighted challenges and opportunities for nurses interested in politics, encouraging engagement before and after the election.
- It emphasized the significance of knowing local candidates and their stances on healthcare issues.

Next Steps:
- Participate in campaign activities for 4 nurse legislative candidates or support one's own candidate.
- Assist with polling, early voting, or attending WNA's October 28 webinar on Wisconsin politics.
- Complete the evening's evaluation to receive a certificate of attendance.