Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HSB47

Introduced
1/17/23  
Introduced
1/17/23  

Caption

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.)

Impact

The legislation modifies current obligations for mental health professionals regarding loan repayments. Previously, if these professionals failed to meet their practice commitments, they were required to repay the total amounts received. HSB47 eliminates this strict repayment requirement while still holding them accountable by prohibiting further payments if obligations are not fulfilled. This change may encourage more professionals to engage in the program without the fear of significant financial liability if they are unable to complete the terms of service due to unforeseen circumstances.

Summary

House Study Bill 47 (HSB47) seeks to amend the existing mental health professional loan repayment program managed by the college student aid commission. This program is designed to provide financial relief to mental health professionals who commit to practicing in designated service areas. Under the proposed bill, these professionals will be eligible for annual loan repayments after fulfilling one year of service, with specific stipulations for both full-time and part-time practitioners. The annual repayment amount will remain at eight thousand dollars for full-time practice and will be prorated for part-time practice based on hours worked.

Contention

While supporters of HSB47 argue that easing the repayment obligations will attract more mental health professionals to underserved areas, critics may express concern over the potential leniency it provides. There may be fears that removing mandatory repayment could lead to situations where individuals receive benefits without adequately contributing to communities in need of their services. This issue ignites debates over maintaining accountability within financial assistance programs while supporting workforce sustainability in the mental health sector.

Companion Bills

IA SSB1024

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 SF 253.)

IA SF253

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.)

IA HF244

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.)

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