Texas House Bill HB3579

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/20/11
• Voted on by House: 5/13/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 4/19/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 5/13/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/13/11
• Report Pass: 5/19/11
• Enrolled: 5/25/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to repayment assistance for certain physician education loans.

Impact

The bill's enactment is expected to implement more supportive measures to encourage individuals to pursue careers in healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. By addressing the financial burdens associated with medical education, it is believed that more professionals will be motivated to enter and remain in the healthcare field. This could directly impact the availability of healthcare services across Texas, especially in rural and medically underserved areas that frequently grapple with a lack of medical personnel.

Summary

House Bill 3579 aims to establish a framework for repayment assistance for certain physician education loans in Texas. By repealing Section 61.535(b) of the Education Code, the bill seeks to modify existing provisions governing how educational debt for medical professionals is managed. This legislative move responds to the ongoing challenges many health care providers face regarding their educational debt, especially in light of the shortages of healthcare professionals in various regions of the state.

Contention

While the bill is centered around improving access to education and by extension, healthcare, potential points of contention may arise regarding the funding mechanisms for the repayment assistance program. If the bill does not clearly define how these programs will be funded, it could raise concerns among lawmakers and taxpayers about financial sustainability. Additionally, the bill could face scrutiny regarding the qualifications for receiving assistance and whether these criteria adequately reflect the needs of the state's diverse healthcare landscape.