S.B. No. 646 amends the Education Code to expand the definition of "mental health professional" to include additional licensed professionals, such as licensed master social workers, licensed professional counselor associates, licensed marriage and family therapist associates, and certified school counselors. The bill also modifies eligibility criteria for loan repayment assistance, allowing mental health professionals to qualify by providing services to students in public schools, in addition to those already specified. Furthermore, it increases the maximum repayment assistance amounts for various mental health professions, with licensed physicians eligible for up to $180,000 and other professionals receiving varying amounts based on their qualifications.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for allocating unused funds for repayment assistance and allows for extra financial incentives for professionals who are fluent in a language of need, practice in smaller counties, or continue their service beyond three years. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to new applications submitted after that date, while existing applications will be governed by the previous law. The bill aims to enhance support for mental health professionals in Texas, thereby improving access to mental health services in underserved areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 61.601, Education Code 61.604, Education Code 61.607, Education Code 61.608 (Education Code 61)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 61.601, Education Code 61.604, Education Code 61.607, Education Code 61.608 (Education Code 61)
Engrossed: Education Code 61.601, Education Code 61.604, Education Code 61.607, Education Code 61.608 (Education Code 61)
House Committee Report: Education Code 61.601, Education Code 61.604, Education Code 61.607, Education Code 61.608 (Education Code 61)
Enrolled: Education Code 61.601, Education Code 61.604, Education Code 61.607, Education Code 61.608 (Education Code 61)