Substitute Senate Bill No. 1450, also known as Public Act No. 25-162, aims to enhance the recruitment and retention of the health care workforce in Connecticut. The bill establishes a health care provider loan reimbursement program, effective July 1, 2025, which will provide grants to full-time health care providers employed in the state, excluding self-employed individuals. The Commissioner of Public Health is tasked with developing eligibility requirements for these grants, ensuring that at least 20% of the funds are allocated to primary care providers and those working in rural communities or federally qualified health centers. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a virtual education pilot program for nurse's aides and emergency medical technicians, which will be implemented by January 1, 2026, and will include in-person training requirements.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing educational initiatives to promote health care professions in middle and high schools, specifically adding a focus on radiologic technology, nuclear medicine technology, and respiratory care. The Commissioner of Education is required to update the promotion plan by January 1, 2026, to include these specific fields. Lastly, a grant program for recruiting athletic trainers will be established, providing financial assistance for relocation costs to those who move to Connecticut and obtain licensure. The Commissioner of Public Health will oversee this program and report on its effectiveness annually starting January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
PH Joint Favorable Substitute: 10-21q
File No. 611: 10-21q
APP Joint Favorable: 10-21q
Public Act No. 25-162: 10-21q