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Bill

A 376

Relates to providing loan forgiveness to CASACs

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Al Stirpe

Bill A 376 offers loan forgiveness for Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors, easing student debt to boost workforce development in substance abuse treatment.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · A 376

Summary of Bill A 376: Loan Forgiveness for CASACs

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 376
  • Title: Relates to providing loan forgiveness to CASACs (Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors)
  • Status: Referred to Higher Education
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 376 is to establish a loan forgiveness program specifically for Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs). This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of student loans for professionals in the field of substance abuse counseling, thereby encouraging more individuals to enter and remain in this critical workforce.

Key Provisions

  • Loan Forgiveness Eligibility: The bill proposes that CASACs who meet specific criteria will be eligible for loan forgiveness. While the exact criteria are not detailed in the current version, it typically includes factors such as years of service in the field, employment in underserved areas, or working with specific populations.
  • Funding Mechanism: The bill outlines a framework for funding the loan forgiveness program, although specific dollar amounts and funding sources are not provided in the current text.
  • Application Process: The bill is expected to establish a streamlined application process for CASACs to apply for loan forgiveness, making it accessible and efficient.

Impact

  • Target Population: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be CASACs, particularly those who are new to the profession or are working in high-need areas. This could help to increase the number of qualified professionals available to address substance abuse issues.
  • Workforce Development: By reducing the financial barriers associated with education, the bill aims to enhance workforce development in the field of substance abuse counseling, which is crucial for public health and community support.
  • Long-term Benefits: The potential increase in CASACs may lead to improved access to mental health and substance abuse services, ultimately benefiting individuals and communities affected by these issues.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action: As of January 8, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Higher Education Committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent actions, such as hearings or votes, has not yet been established.

Related Legislation

Bill A 376 is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions, including:
- A 8890
- A 546
- A 6275
- A 1017

These related bills may provide additional context or complementary measures aimed at supporting CASACs and addressing substance abuse issues.

This summary provides a clear overview of Bill A 376, its intent, key provisions, and potential impacts, making it accessible for both experts and general readers interested in understanding the legislation.

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

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