Bill > A09379

This bill establishes a Master of Social Work (MSW) paid field work pilot program to provide financial support to students completing their required field work in New York state. Starting in the fall of 2025, students enrolled in an accredited MSW program will be eligible to receive a stipend of $4,500 (at a rate of $10 per hour) for their first 450 hours of field work. To qualify, students must perform their field work in New York state and agree to work in the state as a social worker for one year after graduation. The program includes provisions to prevent double-funding by adjusting the stipend for students who receive other financial support. Schools offering MSW programs will be required to conduct public awareness campaigns about the paid field work opportunity. The Office of Mental Health will collect and publicly report comprehensive data on the program's impact, including changes in enrollment, student demographics, retention rates, student debt, workforce development, 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 representation in the field, mitigate student debt, and enhance labor conditions. The program will be subject to annual appropriations and adjusted based on enrollment numbers.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9379