PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- A plan to improve and expand nursing programs in western South Dakota was approved by the Senate Education committee.

SB43 would allow spending up to fifteen million dollars in federal and state funds to expand the health sciences facility at Black Hills State – Rapid City.

Black Hills State University President Laurie Nichols says they are working with SDSU.

Nichols says they need room for more students.

South Dakota State University President Barry Dunn says it’s an efficient solution to the nursing shortage.

The committee approved the bill on a seven to zero vote and sent it to the Appropriations Committee.