Bill > HB149

This bill establishes the Coal County Paramedic Scholarship Program to address the shortage of paramedics in Kentucky's coal-producing counties. The program will provide scholarships to eligible Kentucky residents who are permanent residents of coal-producing counties, are U.S. citizens, and are enrolled in an accredited paramedic program. Scholarship recipients must commit to working as a licensed paramedic in a coal-producing county for four years after completing their education. The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) will administer the program, with scholarships covering up to 100% of in-state tuition and fees. Recipients must sign a promissory note and will have their debt cancelled upon completing the four-year service commitment. If a recipient fails to complete the program or service requirement, they will be liable for repaying the full scholarship amount with interest. A new trust and agency account will be established in the State Treasury, funded primarily through transfers from coal severance tax receipts (up to 1% of annual revenues), state appropriations, gifts, and grants. The program aims to ensure the availability of paramedics in Kentucky's coal-producing counties by providing financial incentives and support for students pursuing paramedic careers in these underserved areas.

Education

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/25RS/hb149.html