IL SB0662

Establishes the School Social Work Shortage Loan Repayment Program administered by the Higher Education Commission to provide grants to Illinois school social workers.

Awards grants up to $6,500 per qualified applicant beginning July 1, 2022, with funds intended for educational loan repayment related to social work degrees.

Requires applicants to be U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens, Illinois residents, currently employed as school social workers in public schools, with at least 12 consecutive months of prior employment in that role.

Prioritizes grant allocation to applicants who are members of racial minorities (Black, Hispanic, Asian American, or American Indian/Alaskan Native) when appropriations are insufficient for all qualified applicants.

Becomes effective July 1, 2022, with funding subject to separate appropriation from the legislature.