FL H1463

Students with Temporary Protected Status, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, or other prosecutorial discretion from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security may not be denied Florida resident classification solely based on immigration status for purposes of receiving state financial aid awards

Creates the Professional Student Loan Repayment Program within the Department of Education to encourage professionals to practice in geographic areas experiencing vacancy rates of more than 20 percent in designated professions

Eligible professionals include licensed veterinarians, physicians, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, dentists, and certified instructional personnel working in designated shortage areas

Repayments are capped at $50,000 per year per eligible professional for a maximum of 5 years, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis subject to legislative appropriation, and cover student loans used for tuition, books, living expenses, equipment, supplies, and uniforms

Professionals already receiving student loan repayments or forgiveness under s. 381.4019 or any other state loan repayment or forgiveness program are ineligible for the program; the effective date is July 1, 2022