The bill amends the Rural Health Systems and Professional Incentive Act to expand eligibility for student loans and loan repayments to include additional healthcare programs and professionals. Specifically, it allows students enrolled in accredited medical, dental, nurse anesthesia, dietitian nutritionist, and mental health programs in Nebraska to qualify for student loans. Additionally, it includes nurse anesthetists and dietitian nutritionists among the professionals eligible for loan repayment, while also specifying the conditions under which these repayments can be made, such as practicing in designated health profession shortage areas.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the financial assistance limits for various healthcare professionals, with specific amounts designated for student loans and loan repayments based on the profession and level of education. It also establishes criteria for designating health profession shortage areas and mandates that loan repayment recipients must agree to practice in these areas for a minimum of three years. The bill repeals the original sections of the law that are being amended, ensuring that the updated provisions take effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-5662, 71-5663, 71-5665, 71-5668
Final Reading: 71-5662, 71-5663, 71-5665, 71-5668
Slip Law: 71-5662, 71-5663, 71-5665, 71-5668