Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB441

Introduced
1/22/24  
Refer
1/22/24  
Report Pass
2/26/24  
Engrossed
2/29/24  
Refer
3/1/24  
Report Pass
4/2/24  
Enrolled
4/4/24  
Chaptered
4/25/24  

Caption

Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program - Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Award - School Nurses

Impact

The passage of SB 441 is anticipated to have a significant impact on state laws regarding the support provided to education professionals. By including school nurses in the loan repayment program, the bill not only aims to alleviate the financial burden of education for these professionals, but it also intends to enhance the overall health services available to students. This legislative change is expected to bolster enrollment and retention rates for school nurses, ultimately leading to improved student health and educational outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 441 focuses on expanding the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program to include school nurses under the Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Award. This legislation aims to address the shortage of school nurses by providing financial assistance for those who have incurred educational loans. It recognizes the important role that school nurses play in the education system and seeks to recruit and retain qualified nursing professionals in public schools. By doing so, the bill sets the groundwork for improving healthcare accessibility within educational settings across the state.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 441 appears to be very positive. Supporters of the bill express strong approval for its intention to better support school nurses and acknowledge the critical need for healthcare services in schools. The broader educational community, including legislators with advocating for increased health services, recognizes the potential of this bill to foster a healthier school environment. However, while the sentiment is largely supportive, some concerns were raised about the adequacy of funding and resources required to implement the program effectively.

Contention

Despite the overall positive reception, some points of contention emerged during discussions surrounding SB 441. Critics argued about the potential logistical challenges in rolling out the expanded loan assistance program and the long-term sustainability of funding. There were also discussions about whether the focus on school nurses might overshadow the needs of other educational professionals, such as teachers and mental health practitioners. Ensuring that funding is equitable among all types of school professionals remains a vital concern as the state implements the provisions of this bill.

Companion Bills

MD HB545

Crossfiled Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program - Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Award - Public School Nurses

Previously Filed As

MD SB482

Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program - Mental Health Professionals in Public Schools

MD HB488

Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program - Mental Health Professionals in Public Schools

MD HB1061

Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program - Private Company Employees With a Master's Degree in Social Work - Eligible Employment

MD HB1219

Maryland Educator Shortage Reduction Act of 2023

MD HB593

Public Schools - Lifesaver Schools Program - Establishment

MD HB206

Early Childhood Education - Prekindergarten Programs - Montessori Schools and Programs

MD HB982

State Employees – Programs and Scholarships for Human Services Careers and Probation Agents and State Contributions to Supplemental Retirement Plans

MD SB238

Public High Schools – Financial Literacy – Curriculum, Graduation Requirement, and Professional Development

MD SB814

Promise Schools - Establishment

MD HB1267

Promise Schools - Establishment

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