The proposed bill establishes the Behavioral Health Loan Forgiveness Program in Arkansas, aimed at addressing the shortage of mental health professionals in behaviorally underserved communities. It introduces a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 81, which outlines definitions, eligibility criteria, and the administration of the program by the Department of Human Services. The program will provide financial assistance to participants, who are either mental health professionals or licensed alcoholism and substance abuse counselors, by offering payments toward their eligible student loans in exchange for a three-year service commitment in designated underserved areas.

Additionally, the bill creates the Arkansas Behavioral Health Professional Student Loan Repayment Fund, which will be funded through grants, donations, and other authorized sources. The Secretary of the Department of Human Services is tasked with managing this fund, administering the loan forgiveness program, and ensuring compliance with the established rules and regulations. The fund will carry forward any unspent moneys to the next fiscal year, ensuring ongoing support for the program's objectives.