AN ACT ESTABLISHING A LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM AND A TUITION PAYMENT PROGRAM FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS.

SB 704 creates two programs to address healthcare worker shortages: a $50,000 loan forgiveness program for existing health care professionals who work full-time (4 years) or part-time (8 years) in rural/underserved areas or shortage fields, and a tuition payment program covering full graduate program costs for students pursuing health care degrees who commit to similar work terms. Both programs require participants to not be enrolled in other state or federal loan forgiveness programs. The bill directly affects health care professionals (current workers and students) seeking to practice in areas with workforce shortages. Its purpose is to incentivize retention and recruitment in underserved communities through financial support tied to service commitments.