Nurse state legislators, 2013 to 2023

Abstract

Background: Electing nurse legislators can help states make sound health policy.

Purpose: To document the distribution of American nurses elected to state-level offices in 2023 and compare it to data from 2013.

Methods: We developed a directory of 2023 nurses elected to state legislatures. Data collected include state, year elected, party, committees, re-election date, and full/part-time state legislature.

Findings: In 2023, there were 72 nurse legislators in 36 states. These nurse legislators' affiliations were divided almost evenly between the two major parties (38 Republicans and 34 Democrats). Sixty legislators serve on health committees; 32 on finance committees. Fourteen serve in states that have full-time legislatures. The majority (n = 60) are up for re-election in 2024. In 2013, there were 97 legislators in 39 states.

Discussion: Over the last decade, the number of nurse legislators has declined.

Conclusion: State legislatures play key roles in funding and regulating health policy. Identifying where nurses currently serve provides actionable information for those seeking to recruit, train, and elect nurse candidates.

Keywords: Civic engagement; Health policy; Nurse; Political participation; State legislators.