This bill, titled the Nurses for Under-Resourced Schools Everywhere (NURSE) Act, aims to significantly increase the presence of school nurses in public elementary and secondary schools across the nation. It authorizes the Secretary of Education to award competitive demonstration grants to eligible local educational agencies (LEAs) or consortia, including State educational agencies in consortium with LEAs, to fund the hiring of additional school nurses.

Eligible entities are defined as LEAs where at least 20 percent of students qualify for the school lunch program. Priority for these grants will be given to high-need local educational agencies, specifically those serving a large number of students eligible for the school lunch program or where a high percentage of students are eligible. Additionally, entities demonstrating the greatest need for new or additional nursing services, or those currently without any school nurses, will receive preference.

The federal share of these grants will not exceed 75 percent annually and will decrease each subsequent year to encourage sustained local funding. A non-federal share, which can be cash or in-kind, is required, though the Secretary may waive or reduce it in cases of economic hardship. The bill also mandates a report to Congress within two years of the first grant award, evaluating the program's effectiveness in increasing nurse numbers and the impact of enhanced student health on learning outcomes.

The legislation is underpinned by findings emphasizing the crucial role of school nurses in addressing student health issues, managing chronic conditions, providing mental health services, and promoting disease prevention. It notes that many schools lack a dedicated nurse, despite recommendations from organizations like the National Association of School Nurses and the American Academy of Pediatrics for a full-time nurse in every school. Appropriations are authorized for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to carry out this program.