Date: 04/25/2006

Final
BILL SUMMARY for SB06-136

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Votes: View--> Action Taken:
Refer SB06-136 to the Committee on Appropriations.PASS



11:40 AM -- Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by the chairman, Representative Merrifield.

11:40 AM -- Senate Bill 06-136

Representative Butcher reviewed the provisions of Senate Bill 06-136, concerning authorization of a nursing teacher loan forgiveness program. She provided background information and the reasons for bringing the bill.

11:42 AM

The following persons testified:

11:42 AM -- Dr. Mike Davis, representing community colleges and specifically Pueblo Community College, testified in support for the bill. He indicated that finding adequate faculty was a challenge facing the college. He testified that the bill could encourage nurses to pursue a master's degree.


11:44 AM

Dr. Davis responded to questions regarding the expenses for nursing programs and salary levels for nursing faculty. He stressed the importance of attracting and retaining quality faculty. Representative Butcher provided background information on loan forgiveness. Dr. Davis clarified issues around qualifications for faculty, including requirements for accreditation. Committee discussion continued on pursuit of a master's degree and increasing salary levels for nursing faculty.


11:51 AM -- Paula Stearns, representing the Colorado Nurses' Association, testified in support of the bill. She discussed various initiatives taking place to support and encourage the nursing sector.

11:57 AM

Representative Butcher and committee members made final comments on the bill.


BILL:SB06-136
TIME: 11:58:08 AM
MOVED:Merrifield
MOTION:Refer SB06-136 to the Committee on Appropriations. The motion passed on a 12-1 roll call vote.
SECONDED:Todd
VOTE
Benefield
Yes
King
No
Larson
Yes
Massey
Yes
McKinley
Yes
Penry
Yes
Pommer
Yes
Rose
Yes
Solano
Yes
Todd
Yes
White
Yes
Paccione
Yes
Merrifield
Yes
Final YES: 12 NO: 1 EXC: 0 ABS: 0 FINAL ACTION: PASS