Sponsor urges extending MassReconnect scholarships to vocational practical nursing students to fill LPN shortage

Representative Stanley testified in support of H.1461, which seeks to expand eligibility for the MassReconnect tuition assistance program to students enrolled in practical nursing programs at career/vocational-technical education (VOTECH) schools.

Why it matters: Stanley said the Commonwealth faces a long‑term care workforce shortage, with a 2024 Massachusetts Healthcare Workforce Survey (CHIA) showing roughly a 20 percent vacancy rate for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in nursing homes and an estimate that the sector needs hundreds of additional direct‑care workers to meet minimum staffing requirements. He told the committee that community colleges graduate about 300 practical nursing students annually while vocational schools could graduate roughly 600, potentially tripling the pipeline if given access to MassReconnect funds.

Testimony highlights and implementation context: Stanley said extending MassReconnect would create additional pathways for low‑income and geographically isolated students who lack nearby community college practical‑nursing programs. He framed H.1461 as a complement to the long‑term care bill passed last session and asked the committee to report the bill favorably.

No formal action was taken at the hearing. Representative Stanley said he would submit written testimony and the committee did not vote on the measure during the session.