I am writing to support a change in the regulatory requirements for clinical hours in Virginia. Given our university's geographical location in the northern and western region of the state, the current regulation creates barriers to clinical sites within 50 miles of the bordering states of West Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. This limitation contributes to a decrease in the diversity of clinical experiences that may benefit nursing graduates' preparation for practice upon graduation. Clinical specialty areas already pose challenges, further exacerbated by state border limitations. 

Additionally, the current regulations contribute to the administrative burden in organizing and documenting student clinical experience and applying for exceptions each semester. 

I respectfully request support for a regulatory change that eliminates the limitations on out-of-state clinical hours. Thank you for your continued efforts to ensure quality education for nursing programs.