SB3734 - Equity and Representation in Health Care Act

• Creates two programs administered by the Department of Public Health: the Equity and Representation in Health Care Workforce Repayment Program (for loan repayment) and the Equity and Representation in Health Care Workforce Scholarship Program (for training costs).

• Establishes eligibility requirements for health care professionals and behavioral health providers, including employment or job offers at qualifying medical facilities (FQHCs, FQHC Look-Alikes, or county hospital systems), valid licenses, and service agreements for Health Professional Shortage Areas or Medically Underserved Areas.

• Prioritizes applicants from underrepresented groups in health care, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, first-generation college students, military veterans, and those working in rural areas.

• Requires annual reporting to the General Assembly and Governor on program impact regarding provider recruitment and retention in underserved areas and workforce diversity improvements.

• Imposes repayment obligations with 9% interest for recipients who fail to maintain required employment, with collected funds deposited into the Community Health Center Care Fund to support primary care access.