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Bill Summary · HB 1154

Legislative bill overview

HB 1154 establishes a state tax credit for employers who provide preceptorship programs in behavioral health fields. The bill incentivizes clinical training and mentorship of behavioral health professionals by offering financial benefits to participating employers. This appears designed to address workforce shortages in mental health and substance abuse treatment services.

Why is this important

Indiana faces documented shortages of behavioral health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors. By creating tax incentives for preceptorships, the bill aims to expand training capacity and create a pipeline of qualified professionals to meet community mental health needs. This directly affects access to mental health services for Indiana residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state budget: Tax credits reduce state revenue; fiscal impact depends on credit amount and participation rates, which aren't yet specified in available summaries
  • Definitional specificity: The bill's success depends on clear definitions of "behavioral health" and qualifying "preceptorship programs"—vague language could lead to disputes or unintended coverage
  • Equity of benefits: Larger employers with existing training infrastructure may claim credits more easily than small providers, potentially concentrating benefits unevenly

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

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