New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00060

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Provides for the award of regents scholarships and loan forgiveness for nurses on the same terms as physicians; applies to registered professional nurses as defined in section 6903 of the education law.

Summary

Bill A00060 amends the education law to enhance the availability of regents professional education scholarships and loan forgiveness programs specifically for nursing professionals. The bill proposes to award 2,000 scholarships annually to students beginning professional study in nursing, aligning the support previously available only to medical and dental students. Additionally, it establishes a loan forgiveness program for nurses who commit to practicing in designated shortage areas in New York State, similar to existing provisions for physicians. This initiative aims to address the ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, by incentivizing their education and retention in underserved areas.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws by expanding the eligibility and scope of financial aid programs for nursing students and professionals. It modifies existing statutes to include nursing alongside medicine and dentistry, thereby increasing the number of scholarships and loan forgiveness opportunities available to nursing students. This change is expected to improve the workforce in healthcare, particularly in regions identified as having a shortage of medical professionals, thus enhancing access to healthcare services across the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A00060 appears to be supportive, as it addresses critical issues related to healthcare access and workforce shortages. Discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of supporting nursing education and incentivizing practice in underserved areas. However, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to sustain these programs long-term.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of scholarships and loan forgiveness awards, particularly in terms of prioritization among applicants and the criteria for determining shortage areas. Some stakeholders may argue for more comprehensive support mechanisms or express concerns about the potential administrative burden of implementing these programs effectively. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the balance between supporting nursing versus other healthcare professions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A00025

Provides for the award of regents scholarships and loan forgiveness for nurses on the same terms as physicians; applies to registered professional nurses as defined in section 6903 of the education law.

NY A06711

Provides for the award of regents scholarships and loan forgiveness for dentists and podiatrists on the same terms as physicians and dentists.

NY H3577

Nursing loan and scholarship forgiveness

NY S10257

Establishes the New York state nursing faculty scholarship incentive program for advanced degrees in nursing; provides such incentives shall be awarded annually, on a competitive basis, to registered professional nurses and certified nurse practitioners who are in a masters or doctoral program and agree to teach nursing for one year for each year such incentive is awarded.

NY A08472

Establishes a temporary practice authorization program for physicians, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice in underserved areas.

NY S08341

Establishes a temporary practice authorization program for physicians, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice in underserved areas.

NY HF3133

Physician and medical resident eligibility for loan forgiveness under the health professional education loan forgiveness program modified.

NY HF4067

Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants eligible for loan forgiveness under the health professional education loan forgiveness program, and money appropriated.

NY S05867

Relates to the certification of registered nurse anesthetists; provides that for such certification an applicant shall file an application, be licensed as a registered professional nurse, have satisfactorily completed educational preparation for the administration of anesthesia by an accredited entity and pay a fee; specifies who may represent themself as a registered nurse anesthetist.

NY SF4170

Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants eligibility for loan forgiveness under the health professional education loan forgiveness program authorization and appropriation

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