An Act to provide a pilot program for low interest loans to families with a child suffering from a terminal illness

HD 1612 establishes a pilot program providing one-time, low-interest loans of up to $10,000 to 30 families in the Commonwealth caring for a child diagnosed with a terminal illness (defined as likely to cause death within six months). The loans, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, cover documented medical expenses directly related to the child's illness and carry an interest rate of 2% or the current rate (whichever is higher). Repayment begins one year after the loan is issued, with failure to pay triggering a 15% interest rate. Families must submit receipts for expenses, and the program is limited to a 30-participant pilot.