Bill > S119

This bill establishes a student loan repayment program for human services workers designed to encourage employment in the human services field and help address workforce challenges. Administered by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the program will provide loan repayment assistance to workers in community-based human services organizations who meet specific eligibility criteria. To qualify, workers must be employed full-time (minimum 35 hours per week) for at least 12 consecutive months, with priority given to those working in Advancing Health Equity in Massachusetts (AHEM) communities, having at least three years of experience, earning less than $60,000 annually, and demonstrating language skills aligned with community needs. The loan repayment amounts vary based on educational attainment: up to $6,000 for associate degrees, up to $20,000 for bachelor's degrees, and up to $30,000 for master's degrees. In exchange, participants must commit to working in an eligible setting for 1-3 years depending on their degree level. The program aims to support human services workers by helping them manage educational loan debt while incentivizing continued employment in critical community service roles.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S119