Bill > HB194

This bill establishes the Mental Health Professional Student Loan Forgiveness Program within the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency to provide financial support for students and professionals working in mental health fields focusing on early childhood through adolescence. The program offers qualified applicants who are Pennsylvania residents and have completed at least half of their academic degree in fields like social work, counseling, psychology, psychiatry, or nursing the opportunity to receive up to $22,500 in student loan debt relief or direct cash assistance. To be eligible, participants must contract with the agency to work in the mental health field for at least one year, with a preferred commitment of seven years. Applicants must be recommended by their faculty or employer, maintain at least a B average, and submit annual certifications of their continued eligibility. The program includes provisions for nullifying the service obligation in cases of death or total disability, and potential repayment if the recipient fails to meet contract terms. An initial appropriation of $50,000,000 from the General Fund is allocated to fund the program, with awards distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Notably, any financial awards received through this program will not be considered taxable income.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=194