MS HB913

Creates the State Podiatric Forgivable Loan Program to enable eligible applicants to obtain a four-year education in podiatry at accredited colleges of podiatric medicine and become licensed practicing podiatrists.

Board of Education shall establish by rule the maximum annual award amount (not to exceed actual tuition and expenses) and maximum number of awards based on degree completion timeline.

Loan recipients may repay through: (a) 60 or fewer equal monthly installments of principal and interest; (b) public health work at state health institutions or federally-funded community health centers; or (c) podiatric practice in rural health professional shortage areas outside metropolitan statistical areas for five years.

Board shall establish all necessary rules and regulations to implement the program.

Effective July 1, 2021.