1. Regulation and Accreditation: They develop licensing requirements and accreditation standards for nursing programs, ensuring that nurses are well-prepared for their roles. 2. Legislation: They advocate for and enact laws that protect the rights of nurses and patients, such as safe staffing ratios and workplace safety regulations. 3. Funding and Resources: They allocate funding for nursing education, research, and practice, influencing the availability and quality of nursing services. 4. Advocacy: They represent the interests of nurses and patients in various forums, promoting policies that support public health and nursing practice.