Statement from Governor Sonny Perdue Concerning Nursing Board Decision on Nursing Education

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today concerning the Georgia Board of Nursing’s decision on nursing education in Georgia:

“This administration is fully supportive of bona fide nontraditional education methods as a means of solving Georgia’s nursing shortage. In addition, a school’s tax status alone should not be the determinant in whether or not it can offer a nursing program. This administration has not seen any evidence to suggest that graduates of the schools seeking approval yesterday have posed a threat to public health or safety.  Further, I do not agree that recent legislation dictated the conclusion reached by the Board yesterday. In response, we look forward to working with the General Assembly to make it clear that bona fide nontraditional and for-profit education institutions can have a place in Georgia.

I hope the Board’s decision will not discourage emerging graduates and future students in these programs from continuing their studies and joining the dedicated group of nurses in this state working every day to create a healthier Georgia.”