West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB3150

Introduced
3/4/25  
Refer
3/4/25  
Refer
3/17/25  
Engrossed
3/27/25  
Refer
3/29/25  

Caption

Health Science and Medical Student Loan Programs

Impact

The fiscal implications of HB 3150 are significant as it proposes a stronger system for the repayment of loans specifically tied to service obligations. By offering awards up to $10,000 annually for individuals committed to practicing in underserved areas, the bill encourages healthcare professionals to remain in the state where they are needed most. This could potentially alleviate the shortage of medical providers in those critical areas and improve healthcare delivery across West Virginia.

Summary

House Bill 3150 focuses on amending West Virginia's medical student loan and loan repayment programs to help address the shortage of healthcare professionals in the state. By revising existing definitions, award amounts, and service commitments, this bill aims to streamline the administrative process and make it more efficient for students pursuing medical degrees. It seeks to clarify provisions related to loan repayments and interest rates, establishing a clearer pathway for financial assistance that is contingent upon service in federally designated health professions shortage areas.

Sentiment

General sentiment towards HB 3150 appears to be supportive, highlighting a collective acknowledgment of the state's need for increased healthcare access and improved medical workforce stability. Advocates of the bill argue that such measures not only assist students financially but also help cultivate a sustainable healthcare environment in West Virginia, prioritizing the needs of its citizens. The focus on underserved populations further underscores a commitment to improving community health outcomes.

Contention

However, there is also recognition that challenges or misconceptions may arise regarding the sustainability of funding for these loan repayment programs. Opponents could argue that reliance on state funding might lead to inconsistencies in program availability, potentially dissuading prospective students. Moreover, there are concerns about the mechanisms for ensuring compliance with service commitments and the implications for students who may need to relocate after their training is completed.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB4768

Relating to increasing the number of out-of-state medical students receiving in-state tuition rates who agree to practice for a specific time within West Virginia.

WV HB2989

Relating to increasing the number of out-of-state medical students receiving in-state tuition rates who agree to practice for a specific time within West Virginia.

WV HB2381

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV HB2833

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV HB4763

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV HB2180

Relating to the creation and administration of a scholarship program for college students who remain in-state after graduation

WV SB250

Requiring medical insurance providers to include infertility services in their policies

WV HB5153

Relating to revising, updating and streamlining the requirements governing the West Virginia Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholarship.

WV HB4831

Relating to Catalytic Converters

WV HB5671

Medical Redshirt Bill for High School Students

Similar Bills

WV HB4289

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV SB654

Creating exceptions to WV Invests Grant eligibility requirement

WV HB2166

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV HB2833

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV HB4763

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV HB2381

Establishing the behavioral health workforce education initiative at the Higher Education Policy Commission

WV SB2002

Reclassifying Bluefield State College as statutorily exempt school

WV HB202

Relating to reclassifying Bluefield State College as a statutorily exempt school