AN ACT ESTABLISHING A LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM AND A TUITION PAYMENT PROGRAM FOR CERTAIN HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS WHO WORK IN A RURAL OR OTHER UNDERSERVED AREA OR IN A FIELD WITH A WORKFORCE SHORTAGE.

SB 260 creates two programs to address healthcare workforce shortages: a loan forgiveness program for up to $50,000 of graduate loans and a tuition payment program covering up to full tuition costs for medical/nursing students. It directly affects healthcare professionals (including physicians and nurses) who commit to working full-time for four years or part-time for eight years in rural, underserved areas, or fields with workforce shortages. To qualify, participants must not be using other state or federal loan programs and must maintain licensure. The bill aims to retain healthcare workers in high-need areas by reducing financial barriers for both current professionals and students.