The bill, S.B. No. 153, proposes the establishment of a Social Work Recruitment and Retention Program, which will be administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. This program aims to provide stipends to students enrolled in accredited social work programs at institutions of higher education, assisting them in obtaining the necessary field hours for their degree completion. The stipends will be available for both bachelor's and master's degree students, with specific amounts allocated based on their level of study—$15 per hour for bachelor's students and $20 per hour for master's students, with maximum totals of $6,000 and $9,000, respectively.

Additionally, the bill outlines eligibility criteria for students to receive these stipends, including enrollment in an accredited program, acceptance into a board-approved practicum placement, and the completion of a written agreement with the board. The board will also prioritize applicants based on need-based aid qualifications and practicum placements in designated mental health professional shortage areas. Institutions receiving funds will be required to report on the distribution of stipends and other related expenses, and the board will submit a biennial report to key state officials on the program's effectiveness. The bill includes provisions for the board to adopt necessary rules for the program's administration.

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