NJ A367

Creates a tuition reimbursement program administered by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority for advanced practice nurses who provide mental health care in designated underserved areas of New Jersey.

Participants receive 25% reimbursement of their lowest-tuition academic year for each year of full-time mental health service completed, up to 100% reimbursement for four years of service.

Eligibility requires New Jersey residency, Board of Nursing certification as an advanced practice nurse, specialized mental health training, and application within one year of obtaining certification.

The Commissioner of Health will designate underserved areas based on health status criteria, economic indicators, and shortage of mental health professionals.

Participants must charge customary rates but provide reduced-cost or free care to patients unable to pay, and cannot discriminate based on ability to pay or participate simultaneously in other loan redemption programs like the Primary Care Practitioner Loan Redemption Program.