AN ACT ESTABLISHING A STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION.

SB 19 creates a student loan repayment program for full-time health care professionals working in the state Department of Correction. It appropriates $1 million annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to provide eligible employees up to $50,000 in total loan repayment, distributed in installments after years 2-6 of service (e.g., $5,000 after year 2, $15,000 after years 5-6). The program aims to recruit and retain health care staff within correctional facilities. Funding comes from the General Fund, with payments made directly to lenders upon verification of continued employment.