Bill > S630

This bill establishes two key programs to support mental health services in North Carolina: a School Mental Health Grant Program and a Mental Health Worker Loan Repayment Program. The School Mental Health Grant Program will provide $50 million in recurring funds to help public school units contract with mental health support personnel, such as counselors, psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists, to increase student access to mental health services. The program prioritizes schools with students who have limited or no access to mental health services, including those without health insurance or with disabilities. The Mental Health Worker Loan Repayment Program will also receive $50 million in recurring funds to provide loan repayment grants to mental health professionals who graduated from a University of North Carolina institution, work full-time in a high-need area (defined as development tier one or two areas), and have student debt. Eligible workers can receive up to 20% of their student debt repaid annually, with a maximum of five years of awards. Both programs aim to address mental health service gaps in North Carolina, particularly in underserved communities, by supporting schools and incentivizing mental health professionals to work in areas with the greatest need.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S630