SC H4753

Creates the "Athletic Trainers' Loan Assistance Grants Program" to help certified athletic trainers working in South Carolina public schools repay federal student loans incurred for their certification education

Grants up to $7,500 per year ($3,750 per semester) for a maximum of four consecutive years, distributed in two payments after January 1st and June 1st

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, hold BOC-approved degrees, be licensed in good standing, and provide at least 20 hours of athletic training services per week at qualifying institutions

Commission on Higher Education administers the program in consultation with the Athletic Trainers' Advisory Committee, with up to 10% of annual appropriations allowed for administrative costs

Priority for grants goes to athletic trainers serving geographic areas of critical need as determined by the State Department of Education when funding is insufficient for all eligible recipients