WHEREAS, the American Federation of Teachers supports the concept of advanced education of all nurses; and

WHEREAS, the New York State Board for Nurses has proposed a regulatory change to mandate a BSN degree to maintain licensure; and

WHEREAS, this regulatory change could prove to be a barrier to recruitment and retention of Associate Degree nurses; and

WHEREAS, there is an escalating national shortage of nurses; and

WHEREAS, the existing accessibility to such advanced educational programs is severely limited; and

WHEREAS, there is a national shortage of nurse educators to teach the majority of nurses who have less than a BSN; and

WHEREAS, there is a shortage of nursing programs to meet the current demand for new students; and

WHEREAS, the American Federation of Teachers represents members in thousands of nursing positions; and

WHEREAS, all RN candidates from approved nursing programs take the same national exam, regardless of the level of degree preparedness; and

WHEREAS, the problem in providing quality nursing services must be addressed nationally as well as locally:

RESOLVED, that the AFT oppose and urge locals to oppose a mandatory regulation that requires RNs to obtain a BSN in order to retain their duly earned license; and

RESOLVED, that the AFT oppose any regulations that seek to prevent a licensed registered nurse from practicing because that person has not obtained a BSN or that causes a diminution of status, salary or benefits in any way, shape or form.