The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 concerning the Board of Nursing and the Alabama Loan-Repayment Program for Advanced-Practice Nursing. Key changes include the removal of the annual loan cap, allowing the board to award loans without a predetermined limit, and establishing a maximum annual loan amount of $15,000 for the first year, with subsequent increases capped at 5% annually. The definition of a "critical need area" has been broadened to include primary care health professional shortage areas and Federally Qualified Health Centers, while previous restrictions related to urbanized areas have been eliminated. Additionally, the bill streamlines penalties for loan repayment defaults, instituting a flat penalty of 20% of the total principal for those who default after graduation, replacing the previous tiered penalty system.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions for the evaluation and reporting processes of the program, requiring the board to consult with the Alabama Commission on the Evaluation of Services to develop performance metrics for the annual report. It also mandates an evaluation of the program by the commission during the 2028 fiscal year to assess its impact. The language regarding the board's authority is modified by changing "make" to "adopt" reasonable rules and removing "and regulations." The board is required to use funds received from the program, including repayments and penalties, to support loan funding. The act will take effect on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-21-96, 34-21-97, 34-21-98
Engrossed: 34-21-96, 34-21-97, 34-21-98, 34-21-99
Enrolled: 34-21-96, 34-21-97, 34-21-98, 34-21-99