Ward Applauds Passage of Online Nurse Aide Training Legislation

HARRISBURG – The House of Representatives unanimously approved Sen. Judy Ward’s legislation yesterday that permits online educational training for nurse aides.

“There is a critical need for nurse aides who can provide care for our seniors, so removing barriers and making the required training more accessible is vitally important,” Sen. Ward said. “This bill will allow more flexibility for those participating in state-approved nurse aide training programs and will help address the staffing shortages facing our nursing facilities.”

Ward sponsored Senate Bill 729 in April to give certified nursing assistants (CNAs) the flexibility to complete portions of their education virtually instead of the 120 hours of in-class and clinical training currently required.

A Babson Survey Research Group report shows that distance education enrollments have increased annually for the last 14 years and nearly one third of all students now take at least one course online. “This COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this trend”, Ward said.

“I was pleased to work with stakeholders across Pennsylvania’s long-term care industry on this important legislation, and am thrilled that this bill is on its way to the Governor for his signature,” she said.

CONTACT: Nathan Akers, Chief of Staff, 717-787-2421

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