AZ SB1461

Appropriates $5,000,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2026-2027 to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) to establish an allied health care workforce development program.

Requires AHCCCS to distribute the funds to a nonprofit organization solely dedicated to training allied health care workers through direct programs and education partners.

The recipient nonprofit must have graduated at least 7,000 students before the effective date, maintained an active presence in at least eight states, and have capacity to graduate a minimum of 1,000 students through the new program.

Defines "allied health care worker" as individuals contributing to health service delivery in roles distinct from physicians and registered nurses, typically requiring specialized training beyond high school but less than a bachelor's degree.