HB 6137 Summary

• Establishes the "Licensed Social Workers Student Loan Repayment Act" to create a state grant program for licensed social workers serving in critical human service areas or fields.

• Eligible applicants must be licensed social workers in good standing, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, Michigan residents for 12 consecutive months, and must meet at least 2 of 3 criteria including full-time work in critical areas/fields or receipt of low income during such work.

• Grants up to $15,000 per year are available based on years of continuous full-time employment, with amounts increasing from $15,000 for year one to up to the full remaining eligible debt balance for year four and beyond.

• Grants are reduced by any amounts the applicant receives from other state or federal loan repayment programs; priority funding goes to applicants meeting all three eligibility criteria before remaining funds are distributed pro-rata to other qualifying applicants.

• The Department of Health and Human Services administers the program, develops applications, and promulgates rules; funding comes from a dedicated repayment fund and other legislative appropriations; bill only takes effect if HB 6138 is also enacted.