Bill > S04511

This bill expands the eligibility period for the New York State District Attorney and Indigent Legal Services Attorney Loan Forgiveness Program from 6 years to 8 years after the completion of the second year and before the commencement of the eleventh year of employment as an eligible attorney. It also increases the maximum annual loan reimbursement for eligible attorneys working in legal services with indigent clients from $3,400 to $8,000 per qualifying year, subject to available appropriations. The bill specifies that vacation, leave time, or leave taken for a qualifying reason under the Family and Medical Leave Act shall not be considered an interruption in qualifying employment. The changes in this bill will take effect on April 1, 2025, and will not diminish the current awards or status of eligible attorneys currently participating in the program.