Bill > HB5211

This bill expands and modifies the existing student loan repayment assistance program for attorneys working in rural counties in Texas. The key changes include broadening the definition of a rural county from 50,000 to 100,000 population, expanding eligibility to include both prosecuting attorneys and public defenders working in rural counties, and adding a new category for attorneys appointed to represent indigent individuals in criminal or juvenile cases. The bill establishes a more comprehensive loan repayment structure, allowing eligible attorneys to receive up to $180,000 in total assistance over four years, with maximum annual amounts ranging from $30,000 in the first year to $60,000 in the fourth year. Attorneys must be licensed in Texas, have earned a law degree from an accredited law school, and work either full-time or part-time (minimum 15 hours per week) in qualifying positions. The bill also creates an advisory committee composed of representatives from legal professional organizations to help guide the program's implementation, with specific recommendations on documenting work hours and allocating funding to incentivize service in the most rural areas. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer the program, and the changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, applying only to new loan repayment assistance agreements initiated after that date.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5211