Establishes a loan forgiveness program for licensed mental health professionals in jails and prisons for the purpose of increasing the number of mental health professionals rendering mental health services in correctional institutions; provides for eligibility and priority; provides for awards in the amount of $2,000; makes related provisions.
Impact
If enacted, A10791 would amend existing education laws by adding a new section dedicated to providing financial incentives for mental health professionals. It proposes that applicants eligible for the program must hold a valid mental health license, comply with additional regulatory criteria, and have outstanding student loan debt. Priority for loan forgiveness awards would be given to those who have previously provided mental health services in correctional settings, thereby encouraging professionals to establish their practice in these critical environments.
Summary
A10791 is a bill introduced in the New York State Assembly aimed at establishing a loan forgiveness program specifically for licensed mental health professionals working in jails and prisons. The primary purpose of this legislation is to increase the availability of mental health services within correctional institutions by alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with student loan debt faced by professionals in this field. The bill underscores the importance of mental health care for incarcerated individuals which is often overlooked and underfunded.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding A10791 may stem from concerns over the adequacy of funding for the loan forgiveness program, as well as broader debates regarding mental health services in correctional systems. Supporters argue that the bill will improve mental health outcomes for incarcerated individuals, who often experience high rates of mental health issues. Critics may voice concerns about whether the financial aid provided through the program is sufficient to attract and retain qualified professionals in these facilities, given the challenging working conditions often associated with correctional settings.
Same As
Establishes a loan forgiveness program for licensed mental health professionals in jails and prisons for the purpose of increasing the number of mental health professionals rendering mental health services in correctional institutions; provides for eligibility and priority; provides for awards in the amount of $2,000; makes related provisions.
Establishes a loan forgiveness program for licensed mental health professionals in jails and prisons for the purpose of increasing the number of mental health professionals rendering mental health services in correctional institutions; provides for eligibility and priority; provides for awards in the amount of $2,000; makes related provisions.
Establishes a centralized mental health data reporting and integration platform to be utilized by all state-operated and county-administered mental health programs, as well as all providers licensed or funded by the office of mental health for the provision of mental health services.
Makes permanent certain provisions relating to reimbursement for commercial and Medicaid services provided via telehealth; establishes the rural healthcare professional loan repayment award program and the rural healthcare professional tax credit program; establishes a tax credit for rural healthcare providers.
Defines "mental health clubhouse"; provides that the department of health, in consultation with the office of mental health, shall authorize Medicaid reimbursement for services provided by mental health clubhouses.
Extends confidentiality privileges to certain communications to or from a licensed mental health counselor in the course of such licensed mental health counselor's professional employment, and to certain employees of such licensed mental health counselor; provides exceptions thereto.
Establishes the mental health educational opportunity program and the mental health higher educational opportunity program to provide additional educational opportunities for students at certain universities and colleges in the state to enroll in academic programs that lead to a degree or degrees required for licensure in any of the mental health professions.