Bill > H283

This bill establishes a student loan repayment program specifically designed for human services workers in Massachusetts to encourage recruitment and retention in the field. The program, to be administered by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, provides loan repayment assistance to workers employed at least 35 hours per week for a minimum of 12 consecutive months in community-based human services organizations. Eligibility and funding amounts are tied to educational attainment, ranging from up to $6,000 for associate degree holders to up to $30,000 for those with master's degrees. Priority will be given to applicants working in Advancing Health Equity in Massachusetts (AHEM) communities, which are areas facing significant health disparities, and who meet specific criteria such as having at least three years of experience, earning less than $60,000 annually, and demonstrating multilingual communication skills. Recipients must commit to working in an eligible setting for a period corresponding to their degree level (1-3 years), and the program aims to support workers providing critical treatment, support, and services to clients and families in various human services sectors.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H283