hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Recognizes 2026 as 'The Year of The Power of Nurses'.
Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced to honor nurses' work.
In committee, no Senate vote yet.
This Senate Resolution aims to officially designate 2026 as a year to recognize the strength and importance of nurses across the United States, coinciding with the American Nurses Association's 130th anniversary. Senator Jeff Merkley, a Democrat from Oregon, introduced the resolution, which has been sent to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions for review. For it to advance, the committee would need to approve it, and then the full Senate would vote on its adoption.
Introduced Jan 15, 2026
This resolution was introduced in the Senate on January 15, 2026, and immediately sent to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. For it to become adopted, the committee must approve it, and then the full Senate would need to vote in favor. As a Senate Resolution, it does not go to the House of Representatives or the President for signature; if adopted by the Senate, it expresses the official position of the Senate.
If this resolution passes, 2026 would officially be acknowledged by the Senate as a year dedicated to honoring nurses. This could lead to more public campaigns, events, and media attention highlighting the crucial roles nurses play in healthcare. While it wouldn't change laws or allocate new funds, it would serve as a formal recognition of nurses' contributions, potentially boosting morale within the profession and encouraging community support for nursing initiatives.
Supporters Say
This resolution honors nurses' vital role in healthcare and celebrates a key professional organization.
Critics Say
No explicit opposition is detailed for this commemorative resolution.
Supporters argue that recognizing nurses is essential because they are the largest segment of the healthcare workforce, serving as the backbone of the system and advocates for patients. The resolution emphasizes their consistent presence on the frontlines of health challenges, demonstrating skill, courage, and resilience. As this is a symbolic resolution to honor a profession, there is typically broad support, and no specific criticisms are outlined in the bill text.