STATEHOUSE (Aug. 29, 2025) – Gov. Mike Braun recently ceremonially signed into law a bill sponsored by State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) to help ensure Indiana's nursing workforce can meet the growing health care needs of Hoosiers.
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, enrollment in baccalaureate nursing programs declined in 2022 after 20 years of growth. With Indiana projected to face a shortage of more than 73,000 licensed practical nurses by 2037, Senate Enrolled Act 176 allows high school students to enroll in state-accredited nursing programs. Barrett said this step will help students save money on college-level courses that will count toward a future degree, gain experience in a professional environment sooner and create more opportunities for advanced education, including training to become a registered nurse.
"Indiana families depend on having access to quality health care close to home," Barrett said. "This new law helps students get a jumpstart on their nursing careers while addressing the need for skilled health care workers. It’s a smart investment in both education and the well-being of our communities."
Several Ivy Tech campuses across the state offer programs to earn an associate of science in nursing degree or enroll in a transition to ASN program. Others have a practical nursing technical certificate program. Visit IvyTech.edu for more information.
Barrett said the law also adds two members to the State Board of Nursing, expanding representation and updating member qualifications to ensure the board can address evolving challenges in health care.
SEA 176 received bipartisan support in both chambers during the 2025 legislative session. To learn more, click here.
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State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) represents House District 56,
which includes Wayne County and portions of Henry County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) (right) joins Indiana Gov. Mike Braun (seated) and State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) (left) for a ceremonial signing of legislation to ensure Indiana's nursing workforce can meet the growing health care needs of Hoosiers on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.
