I am writing to express my concern regarding the proposal to increase licensing fees for nurses at a time when our profession is already under immense strain. As a nurse who is deeply committed to patient care, I urge you to reconsider this increase, particularly given the current challenges we are facing.

First and foremost, we are in the midst of a nationwide nursing shortage, and the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher, especially with the growing elder population. Nurses are working tirelessly, often at the cost of our physical and mental health, to ensure that patients receive the care they need. Increasing licensing fees adds another financial burden to a profession already struggling with underpayment. Despite the critical role nurses play, pay raises have been laughably small, especially considering the inflation and cost of living increases that have outpaced our compensation. Many of us are working multiple jobs just to make ends meet, and the proposed increase in licensing fees will only worsen the situation.

Furthermore, the nursing shortage is not an abstract problem; it's one that affects every hospital, clinic, and healthcare facility in the country. Nurses are leaving the field in droves due to burnout, low pay, and lack of support. By raising licensing fees, we risk driving even more qualified individuals away from this already strained profession. We need policies that support nurses, not push us further to the brink.

Instead of increasing fees, I urge you to explore solutions that would help retain and attract nurses, such as fairer pay, better working conditions, and adequate mental health support. A more sustainable approach to supporting our profession is what will truly improve patient care in the long run.

I appreciate your time and consideration and hope that you will take the realities of our profession into account when making decisions that impact us all.