Bill > S651

This bill mandates that the University of Massachusetts board of trustees, in conjunction with the University of Massachusetts Medical School, establish a "learning contract" program for students admitted from the academic year beginning in 2015 and onward, requiring at least four years of service within Massachusetts in areas like primary care, public service, or underserved regions, as determined by public health officials and a designated committee. The Commonwealth, not the medical school, will cover the costs of these contracts, and if a student fails to complete their required service, they must repay the difference between their paid tuition and the standard tuition, plus 8% annual interest, with these repayments going back to the Commonwealth. However, no service or repayment is required until after any internship and residency requirements are finished, and interest only starts accruing after internship completion. The Chancellor will also submit an annual report to legislative committees detailing participation, service areas, impact on underserved regions, repayment usage, and the financial implications for the medical school.