FL S1838

Students with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status may not be denied Florida resident classification solely based on immigration status for purposes of receiving state financial aid awards

Establishes the Professional Student Loan Repayment Program within the Florida Department of Education to incentivize professionals to practice in geographic areas experiencing vacancy rates above 20% in designated professions

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

Loan repayments cover tuition, books, living expenses, equipment, supplies, and uniforms, with a maximum of $50,000 per year per professional for up to 5 years, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis subject to appropriation

Professionals already receiving student loan repayments or forgiveness under other state programs are prohibited from participating in this program; the State Board of Education is directed to adopt rules for administration, with an effective date of July 1, 2022