House Bill No. by Representative Stagni amends the existing law regarding the Health Care Employment Reinvestment Opportunity (H.E.R.O.) Fund. The bill authorizes the Louisiana Health Works Commission to allocate and expend funds through a multi-year plan aimed at addressing the employment demands for healthcare professionals. The proposed changes shift the focus from nursing and allied health professionals to include doctors of medicine, doctors of osteopathy, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses, particularly in designated health professional shortage areas (HPSA).

The bill outlines specific initiatives, such as increasing the number of clinical preceptors in medical and nursing schools, providing financial incentives like student stipends and tuition forgiveness for those who commit to working in Louisiana healthcare facilities, and encouraging healthcare professionals to practice in underserved areas. The effective date of the bill is contingent upon the governor's signature or the expiration of the time for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB615 Original: 17:11(C)(1)