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Bill

A 60

Provides for the award of scholarships and loan forgiveness for nurses on the same terms as physicians

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Eachus and 2 co-sponsors

Bill Summary: A 60 - Nurse Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness OverviewBill Number: A 60 Title: Provides for the award of scholarships and loan forgiveness for nurses on the same ter

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · A 60

Bill Summary: A 60 - Nurse Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness

Overview

Bill Number: A 60
Title: Provides for the award of scholarships and loan forgiveness for nurses on the same terms as physicians
Status: REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
Introduced: January 08, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to address the nationwide shortage of nurses by providing financial incentives for individuals to pursue nursing careers. The legislation aims to make nursing education and training more accessible and affordable, with the intent of attracting and retaining qualified nursing professionals.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a new scholarship program for nursing students, offering full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend
  • Expands the existing loan forgiveness program for nurses, increasing the maximum forgiveness amount and extending eligibility
  • Requires state universities and colleges to reserve at least 20% of their healthcare-related scholarship funds for nursing students
  • Directs the state Department of Health to develop a public awareness campaign promoting nursing careers and available financial assistance

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Nursing students and aspiring nurses would benefit from increased access to scholarships and loan forgiveness, reducing financial barriers to entering the profession
  • Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers would see an influx of new nursing graduates, helping to alleviate staffing shortages and improve patient care
  • Taxpayers would contribute to the funding of these programs, but the long-term benefits of a stronger nursing workforce are expected to outweigh the costs

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been referred to the Higher Education committee for initial review and consideration. If approved by the committee, it will then proceed to a full floor vote in the state legislature. If passed, the new scholarship and loan forgiveness programs would be implemented starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, with the public awareness campaign launching immediately.

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

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