Texas House Bill HB3576

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to student loan repayment assistance for speech-language pathologists or audiologists employed by a public school or as faculty members of certain graduate programs at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The bill will directly impact state laws by amending the Education Code to create a new subchapter dedicated to this loan assistance program. Eligible speech-language pathologists and audiologists may apply for repayment assistance up to 20% of their total student loan principal per year, not exceeding specified caps depending on their degree. Specifically, those with a master's degree could receive up to $30,000, while those with a doctoral degree could receive up to $45,000 over a five-year employment period with public schools or relevant graduate programs.

Summary

House Bill 3576 focuses on student loan repayment assistance for speech-language pathologists and audiologists who are either employed by public schools or serve as faculty members in accredited graduate programs in the field. The bill establishes a framework for eligible individuals to receive assistance in repaying their student loans, thereby encouraging more professionals to work in public education and related fields. This initiative is particularly relevant given the demand for these specialists in schools and the financial burdens that often accompany their education.

Conclusion

Overall, HB3576 is designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by professionals in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology, potentially expanding the workforce in public education and ensuring that more students receive necessary services. By tackling student debt, the bill aims to support the professional development of key educational practitioners while also addressing the growing need for specialized services in public education.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the funding and implementation of this program, as it requires appropriate budgeting and resources to ensure that all eligible applicants can receive assistance. Additionally, there may be discussions around the criteria for eligibility, especially related to part-time employment, which the bill allows for but does not give explicit parameters for its application. This could lead to debates about access and fairness in how the program is administered.