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Bill

SB 646

Relating to repayment of certain mental health professional education loans.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Rafael Anchía and 7 co-sponsors

Texas law creates education loan repayment assistance for mental health professionals to address provider shortages in underserved areas, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#counseling&therapy(s4389) #education--higher--studentfinancialaid(i0235) #highereducationcoordinatingboard #texas(v4280) #healthcareproviders(i0387) #marriage&familycounseling&counselors(s0180) #mentalhealth&substanceabuse(i0019) #professionalcounselors(s0714) #socialwork&socialworkers(s0030) #studentloans(s0036) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · SB 646

Legislative bill overview

SB 646 establishes a loan repayment assistance program for mental health professionals in Texas, helping them manage education debt incurred during their training. The bill became effective September 1, 2025, and was signed into law by the Governor on June 22, 2025.

Why is this important

Mental health professional shortages persist across Texas, particularly in underserved rural and low-income areas. By reducing the financial burden of education loans, this bill aims to incentivize recruitment and retention of therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, and other mental health providers where they're most needed.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and scope: The bill's actual funding mechanism, eligibility criteria, and maximum assistance amounts aren't specified in the available text, leaving questions about how many professionals can be served
  • Definition of covered professions: Unclear whether all mental health credentials (LCSWs, LPCs, psychiatrists, psychologists, etc.) qualify equally or if certain specialties receive priority
  • Repayment obligations and conditions: Unknown whether recipients must commit to serving specific geographic areas or populations, or if there are service requirements to maintain assistance

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

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