The new rules would cap federal borrowing far below the cost of advanced nursing degrees and eliminate Grad PLUS loans entirely
From Aaron Gies for Congress NY-23,
Aaron Gies is raising serious concerns about Congressman Nick Langworthy’s support for student loan policies that limit borrowing for graduate nursing programs. These policies restrict access to the advanced degrees required for nurse practitioners, clinical specialists, and nurse educators who train the next generation. Western New York is already facing a serious nursing shortage. Further limiting access to education would deepen the crisis in rural and underserved communities throughout NY 23.
Across Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties, hospitals and residential health facilities report high vacancy rates and growing difficulty hiring experienced nurses. Many of these areas are designated Health Professional Shortage Areas. This means families are already waiting longer for care, and local health systems are struggling to meet basic needs.
“A healthy community begins with caring for the people who care for us,” said Aaron Gies. “These decisions affect whether people in rural Western New York can see a nurse when they need one. When Washington restricts access to nursing education, it weakens the workforce that keeps our neighbors healthy.”
The new rules would cap federal borrowing far below the cost of advanced nursing degrees and eliminate Grad PLUS loans entirely. For many future nurses, especially those who want to serve in rural clinics, public health settings, or local hospitals, these programs are the only path to affordable education. Without them, fewer students will pursue advanced roles, fewer educators will be available to train new nurses, and local health care access will continue to erode.
“This district deserves leadership that listens and puts people first,” Gies added. “Representatives must answer for policies that weaken our health care system. Our communities rely on nurses every day. We cannot afford choices in Washington that make it harder for people to serve.”
Aaron Gies is urging residents of NY 23 to contact Congressman Langworthy’s office and express their concern about the student loan restrictions. Constituents are encouraged to demand accountability and insist that he protect access to affordable nursing education and defend the dignity and health of every community in the district.
