My name is Quin, and I am and Navy veteran and a soon-to-be graduating nursing student. I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed Fee Increase 2024 (18VAC90-19-30) for nursing licensure in Virginia, which includes massive increases to the fees for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The nursing profession’s core is to give back and actively care for the people and the community; to care for our community, it is essential to care for our nurses in return. These fee increases will discourage potential nursing students from entering the profession or push current nurses out due to the rising financial strain. This could significantly affect those from poor communities aspiring to nursing, where the financial burden of licensure could deter them from pursuing or continuing their nursing careers. In light of these considerations, I respectfully request that you reconsider the proposed Fee Increase 2024. We should strive to make nursing education and licensure as accessible as possible to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals.