Sen. Van Taylor, R-Plano and Rep. Jodie Laubenberg, R-Parker filed two bills, Senate Bill 1328 and House Bill 2251, that would allow Collin College the ability to offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

Currently, Texas law allows certain public community colleges to offer baccalaureate degree programs in applied science and applied technology.

“Collin College has been an education crown jewel in our community, offing students an affordable entry in the healthcare profession,” Laubenberg said in a press release. “Because of the continued advancement of nursing science, what once could be achieved in a two-year program now requires more complex training.”

In a press release, Taylor said because of Collin College’s state-of-the-art nursing program and the growing demand for nurses the access to more degree programs is crucial.

“SB 1328 would help maximize [Collin College’s] potential, giving nursing students additional opportunities to pursue their professional goals while filling an important healthcare void in our community,” Taylor said.

According to Collin College, Texas faces a massive shortage of registered nurses, particularly those with Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees that hospitals need to qualify for magnet status. By 2020, Texas is expected to be short 71,000 registered nurses, and 80 percent of the nursing workforce will require a bachelor’s degree.

“Collin College is deeply appreciative of Sen. Taylor, Rep. Laubenberg and the entire Collin County delegation for their unwavering support as the college works to provide programs to meet clear and growing needs,” Collin College President Neil Matkin said in a statement. “This legislation is vital to providing the nurses the county needs and sustaining a quality of life that is second to none.”