Bill > S07894

This bill establishes a Master of Social Work (MSW) paid field work pilot program that will provide stipends to students in state-registered and accredited MSW programs who complete field work in New York state. Starting in the fall 2025 semester, eligible students will receive $4,500 (at a rate of $10 per hour) for their first 450 hours of required field work, distributed monthly until either the hours are completed or the spring 2029 semester ends. To receive the funding, students must agree to work in social work in New York state for one year after graduation. Students who already receive more than $4,500 in field work funding from other sources will be ineligible, while those receiving less can receive a supplemental stipend to reach $4,500. The bill requires participating schools to conduct public awareness campaigns about the program, and mandates that the state office collect and publicly report detailed data on the program's impacts, including changes in social work program enrollment, student demographics, retention rates, student debt, workforce retention, and local economic effects. By December 2029, the office must submit a report to the governor and legislature with recommendations for expanding the pilot program to increase the number of social workers, improve field representation, mitigate student debt, and enhance labor conditions.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7894