The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation aimed at addressing shortages in the state’s healthcare workforce. The bill, sponsored by Senator Robert Singer (R-30), seeks to expand eligibility for loan forgiveness programs to help attract and retain healthcare professionals.
“New Jersey has long struggled with workforce shortages in the healthcare industry and is projected to have one of the biggest needs for primary care physicians in the country,” said Sen. Singer. “By expanding participation in the state’s loan redemption program, we’ll retain and attract more health professionals while improving quality of care for New Jerseyans.”
The legislation, identified as S-780/A-2801, broadens access to what is now called the Health Care Professional Loan Redemption Program. The changes include extending eligibility to physiatrists and other health professionals as designated by the Commissioner of Health.
Besides renaming and expanding eligibility for the program, the bill also increases the maximum amount that can be redeemed from loans. To qualify, participants must work at approved sites located in medically underserved areas.
The full text of the legislation is available online.
