RELATING TO HEALTHCARE PRECEPTORS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 4 co-sponsors

SB 1070 incentivizes healthcare professionals with tax credits to mentor students, enhancing training and addressing workforce shortages in critical healthcare fields.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#dieticians #directorofhealth #healthcarepreceptortaxcredit #physicianassistants #preceptorcreditassurancecommittee #residencyprograms #socialworkers

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 1070
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Current Status: Reported from HHS with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to CPN/WAM.
Related Bill: HB 303 (companion)

SB 1070 aims to enhance the healthcare workforce in the state by establishing a framework for healthcare preceptors, which includes provisions for tax credits and the formation of a Preceptor Credit Assurance Committee.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 1070 is to support and incentivize healthcare professionals to serve as preceptors for students in various healthcare fields, including dietetics, social work, and physician assistant programs. By doing so, the bill seeks to improve the quality of training for future healthcare providers and address workforce shortages in critical areas of healthcare.

Key Provisions

Healthcare Preceptor Tax Credit:

The bill proposes a tax credit for healthcare professionals who serve as preceptors, thereby encouraging more experienced practitioners to mentor students in residency programs.

Preceptor Credit Assurance Committee:

Establishment of a committee responsible for overseeing the implementation of the preceptor credit program, ensuring that the standards for preceptorship are maintained.

Support for Various Professions:

The bill specifically mentions support for dieticians, physician assistants, and social workers, indicating a broad approach to enhancing training across multiple healthcare disciplines.

Residency Programs:

The legislation aims to strengthen residency programs by ensuring that students receive adequate mentorship and practical experience through qualified preceptors.

Impact

Healthcare Professionals: The bill is expected to benefit healthcare providers who take on the role of preceptors by providing them with financial incentives through tax credits.

Students in Healthcare Fields: Students in dietetics, social work, and physician assistant programs will gain access to improved training opportunities, which may enhance their readiness for professional practice.

Healthcare System: By fostering a stronger pipeline of trained healthcare professionals, the bill aims to address workforce shortages and improve the overall quality of care in the state.

Procedural Timeline

January 17, 2025: Bill introduced.

January 21, 2025: Passed First Reading.

January 23, 2025: Referred to HHS, CPN.

January 27, 2025: Re-Referred to HHS, CPN/WAM.

January 28, 2025: Public hearing scheduled for January 31, 2025.

January 31, 2025: HHS committee recommended passage with amendments.

February 10, 2025: Report adopted; passed Second Reading, as amended, and referred to CPN/WAM.

Conclusion

SB 1070 represents a strategic effort to bolster the healthcare workforce by incentivizing experienced professionals to mentor the next generation of healthcare providers. Through tax credits and the establishment of a dedicated committee, the bill aims to enhance the quality of healthcare education and ultimately improve patient care outcomes in the state.

Bill