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 the introduction of 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 expanded to include specific geographic designations recognized by health authorities, and penalties for defaulting on loan repayment contracts have been significantly reduced, eliminating previous penalties based on the duration of loans received. The bill also clarifies conditions under which loan repayment may be excused, such as in cases of death or disability. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Board of Nursing consult with the Alabama Commission on the Evaluation of Services to develop performance metrics for annual reporting and requires an evaluation of the program during the 2028 fiscal year. It modifies the board's authority to implement the program by replacing the term "make" with "adopt" in relation to reasonable rules and regulations. The board will utilize any funds received from the program, including repayments and penalties, to support loan funding. The act is set to 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