Designating The Week Of May 6-12 As "national Nurses Week" And 2026 As The Year Of The Power Of Nurses In The State Of Delaware.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 119 is a ceremonial resolution that designates the week of May 6-12, 2026, as “National Nurses Week” in Delaware and recognizes 2026 as “The Year of the Power of Nurses.” The resolution expresses appreciation for licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, and advanced practice registered nurses, emphasizing their role as the largest health care profession and their contributions to patient care, public health, and the quality and safety of the health care system.
The resolution also acknowledges the Delaware Nurses Association and several nursing-affiliated organizations for their service and advocacy, and it encourages recognition of nurses’ accomplishments throughout the year, not only during the designated week. Its findings highlight the importance of primary care, preventive care, mental health care, and the growing demand for nursing services due to an aging population and ongoing public health challenges.
Impact
HCR 119 does not amend the Delaware Code, create regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds; its effect is symbolic and commemorative. It formally places the General Assembly’s recognition behind National Nurses Week and the 2026 “Year of the Power of Nurses,” while publicly honoring Delaware’s nursing workforce and the Delaware Nurses Association. The practical impact is limited to state recognition and awareness, but it may support morale, public appreciation, and advocacy for the nursing profession and health care workforce.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and supportive. The bill’s language is celebratory and appreciative, and the voting history provided shows no recorded opposition in the Senate third reading vote, indicating broad agreement with the resolution’s purpose. The absence of committee controversy or recorded dissent suggests the measure was viewed as a noncontroversial recognition of an essential profession.
Contention
There is little evident contention in the text or available legislative history because the resolution is honorary rather than substantive. The only potential point of discussion is the broader policy message embedded in the findings: the need for greater use of nursing resources, stronger primary and preventive care, and attention to workforce shortages driven by public health crises and population aging. Those themes are framed as consensus observations rather than disputed policy proposals, and no opposing arguments are reflected in the available materials.
Honoring The Men And Women Of The National Guard Association Of Delaware For Their Service In Advocating, Organizing, Training, And Equipping The National Guard In Support Of The Defense Of Our State And Nation.