The New Jersey Senate has approved a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Robert Singer (R-30) aimed at addressing shortages in the healthcare workforce. The legislation, S-780/A-2801, expands eligibility for the state’s loan forgiveness program and increases the maximum amount of loan redemption available to participants.
Senator Singer commented on the significance of the bill, stating, “New Jersey has long struggled with workforce shortages in the healthcare industry and is projected to have one of the biggest needs for primary care physicians in the country. By expanding participation in the state’s loan redemption program, we’ll retain and attract more health professionals while improving quality of care for New Jerseyans.”
The bill changes the name of the existing program to the Health Care Professional Loan Redemption Program. It also extends eligibility to include physiatrists and other health professionals as designated by the Commissioner of Health. To qualify for loan forgiveness under this expanded program, participants must serve at approved sites located in medically underserved areas.
The full text of the legislation is available online.
