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Bill

S 119

An Act establishing a loan repayment program for human services workers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 16 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishes loan repayment assistance program for human services workers to improve recruitment and retention in under-resourced social care sectors.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 119

Legislative bill overview

S 119 establishes a state loan repayment program designed to assist human services workers in managing educational debt. The bill creates financial incentives for individuals working in critical human services roles, addressing workforce recruitment and retention challenges in this sector. Program details, funding mechanisms, and eligibility criteria would be determined through the legislative process.

Why is this important

Human services workers—including social workers, counselors, and support staff—face significant student debt while earning modest salaries, contributing to workforce shortages in vital care services. Loan repayment assistance can improve recruitment, reduce turnover, and strengthen the stability of programs serving vulnerable populations including children, families, and people with disabilities. This addresses a practical workforce crisis in Massachusetts' social service infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Program cost and funding source: No specified budget allocation is evident; determining sustainable funding (general revenue, dedicated taxes, federal matching) will be contentious
  • Eligibility scope: Defining which human services roles qualify, employment duration requirements, and income thresholds could advantage certain workers over others or create gaps
  • Debt limits and repayment terms: Questions remain about maximum loan amounts covered, repayment timelines, clawback provisions if workers leave the field, and whether the program covers graduate and undergraduate debt equally

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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