HB255 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

April WeaverSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Nursing, Board of, loan repayment program for advanced-practice nurses, loan program authorized for certain currently certified nurses, Sec. 34-21-96 am'd.

Summary

HB255 would expand Alabama's advanced-practice nursing loan-repayment program to include currently certified APNs who contract to work in medically underserved areas, with loan terms tied to degree level and tuition costs.

What This Bill Does

The bill authorizes the Board of Nursing to provide loans to currently certified APNs (CRNPs, CNMs, CRNAs) who agree to practice in medically underserved areas. It retains and clarifies loan provisions for graduates pursuing CRNP, CNM, or CRNA credentials, including amounts up to $15,000 per year for up to three years (master’s) or four years (doctorate), adjustable based on Alabama public in-state tuition increases. Borrowers must sign contracts to repay by working full-time in designated areas of need, with rules on changing areas and a minimum period of service in the new area.

Who It Affects

• Currently certified advanced-practice nurses (CRNPs, CNMs, CRNAs) who contract to practice in medically underserved areas and would become eligible for loan assistance.
• Recent graduates pursuing or who have completed a graduate degree to become CRNPs, CNMs, or CRNAs and who immediately begin practicing in underserved areas.

Key Provisions

• Authorizes the Board of Nursing to provide loans to currently certified APNs who contract with the board to practice in medically underserved areas.
• Maintains existing loan- repayment framework for APN graduates pursuing CRNP, CNM, or CRNA credentials, with eligibility limited to those who have signed contracts.
• Loans may cover up to three years for a master’s degree and up to four years for a doctoral degree, with annual loan amounts not to exceed $15,000, adjustable annually based on in-state tuition increases for Alabama public colleges/universities.
• The board must conduct a careful review of applicants’ ability, character, and qualifications before awarding loans.
• Loan recipients must sign contracts to repay the loan by working in an area of critical need for 18 months for each year of loan received.
• Participants may change their area of critical need, but must work in the new area for at least three years in full-time practice.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after its passage and governor’s approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Nursing, Board of