A bill for an act relating to loan repayments made by the college student aid commission under the mental health professional loan repayment program and including applicability provisions.(See SF 253.)
Impact
The proposed modifications are expected to encourage more mental health professionals to enter and remain in service areas identified as needing support. By striking the requirement for full repayment of loans if a practitioner fails to fulfill their service obligations, the bill eases the financial burden and risk associated with entering the mental health field. This update reflects an understanding of the challenges mental health professionals face and may potentially lead to better healthcare outcomes in underserved areas.
Summary
Senate Study Bill 1024 proposes amendments to the mental health professional loan repayment program administered by the college student aid commission. The bill aims to provide more flexible loan repayment options for mental health professionals who commit to working in designated eligible practice areas. Under the changes, mental health professionals can receive annual repayments of $8,000 for full-time practice or an equivalent prorated amount for part-time practice, significantly enhancing the program's appeal to prospective professionals in the field.
Contention
However, there are notable points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly regarding the potential implications for accountability among loan recipients. Critics may argue that by eliminating the full repayment requirement, the bill might inadvertently diminish the incentive for mental health professionals to adhere to their contractual obligations. The discussion may include a debate on balancing financial support with ensuring that professionals remain dedicated to their practice area after receiving state assistance.
Related
A bill for an act relating to loan repayments made by the college student aid commission under the mental health professional loan repayment program and including applicability provisions.(See HF 244.)
Replaced by
A bill for an act relating to loan repayments made by the college student aid commission under the mental health professional loan repayment program and including applicability provisions.(Formerly SSB 1024.)
Replaced by
A bill for an act relating to loan repayments made by the college student aid commission under the mental health professional loan repayment program and including applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 47.)
A bill for an act providing for the rural veterinarian loan repayment program, including by allowing a loan repayment recipient to exclude net income attributable to loan payments received under the program.(See SF 2491.)
A bill for an act providing for the rural veterinarian loan repayment program, including by allowing a loan repayment recipient to exclude net income attributable to loan payments received under the program.(Formerly SF 2460.)
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 49; Title 52; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to professional counselors.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 49; Title 52; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to professional counselors.
Occupations: individual licensing and registration; licensure of professional guardians and conservators; require. Amends sec. 303a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.303a) & adds art. 14A.