Relating to establishing a social work recruitment and retention program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

SB 153 establishes a social work internship stipend program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. It provides financial support to undergraduate and graduate social work students at Texas institutions with Council on Social Work Education accreditation, covering field hours required for their degrees. Under the program, bachelor's students receive up to $15 per hour (max $6,000 annually) and master's students receive up to $20 per hour (max $9,000 annually) for approved practicum placements. Priority for funding is given to students qualifying for need-based federal aid (via FAFSA) and those placed in mental health shortage areas designated by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The program aims to support recruitment and retention in social work education by reducing financial barriers to required field experience.