; (2) are invaluable members of the health care team; and (3) are leading in the delivery of quality care in a transformed health care system that improves patient outcomes and safety; Whereas better integration of the model of care used by nurses and midwives into health care systems is fundamental to reducing primary and maternity care provider shortages and improving maternal health outcomes; Whereas nurses and midwives are well-positioned to provide leadership to eliminate the health care disparities that exist in the United States, including the maternal health crisis; Whereas the Future of Nursing report of the Institute of Medicine has called for the nursing profession to meet the call for leadership in a team-based delivery model; Whereas nurses are experienced researchers, and the work of nurses encompasses a wide scope of scientific inquiry, including clinical research, health systems and outcomes research, and nursing education research; Whereas nurses provide culturally and ethnically competent care that is sensitive to the regional and community customs of individuals needing care; Whereas nurses are the cornerstone of the public health infrastructure, promoting healthy lifestyles and educating communities on disease prevention and health promotion; and Whereas nurses help, inform, educate, and work closely with legislators to improve— (1) the education, retention, recruitment, and practice of all nurses; and (2) the health and safety of the patients for whom the nurses care in all communities, including rural and underserved communities: Now, therefore, be it