Bill > SB2595

This bill establishes the Educational Counselor, Psychologist and Psychiatrist Loan Repayment Program to provide financial support and loan assistance to mental health professionals working in public schools and higher education institutions in Mississippi. The program offers loan repayment awards ranging from $1,500 to $6,000 based on the recipient's years of participation and whether they work in a school designated as a Comprehensive/Targeted Support and Improvement School. To be eligible, applicants must have graduated from an accredited institution, hold a standard professional license, be employed full-time in a qualifying position, and have outstanding educational loans. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to provide an annual $6,000 salary supplement for licensed school psychologists who obtain Nationally Certified School Psychologist credentials from the National School Psychology Certification Board and are employed as a school psychologist (not an administrator). The program aims to attract and retain qualified mental health professionals in Mississippi's educational system, with awards paid annually directly to the recipient's loan service provider. The program is set to be administered by the Mississippi Postsecondary Financial Assistance Board and will be funded through a special state treasury fund, with provisions for tracking recipient data and ensuring fiscal responsibility. The program is scheduled to be in effect until July 1, 2029.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2595.xml