Protecting Health Care Workforce Pipelines Act
Summary
H.R. 6862, the "Protecting Health Care Workforce Pipelines Act," aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. The bill proposes delaying the termination of authority to award certain Federal Direct PLUS loans until July 1, 2030. It also seeks to postpone the implementation of loan limits for graduate and professional students enrolled at institutions with specific public health designations.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would extend the availability of Federal Direct PLUS loans for graduate and professional students in health-related fields at covered institutions. This extension could alleviate financial burdens on students pursuing careers in healthcare. It may also encourage more individuals to enter these critical professions.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to higher education for aspiring healthcare professionals.
- Potential reduction in the healthcare professional shortage, particularly in underserved areas.
- Financial relief for graduate and professional students in health-related programs.
- Support for institutions providing health professions and nursing programs.
- May incentivize students to serve in health professional shortage areas.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in federal student loan debt.
- Possible delay in addressing the underlying issues driving the need for loan extensions.
- May disproportionately benefit students in specific geographic locations.
- Could create a dependency on federal loans, rather than addressing tuition costs.
- Potential for increased financial risk for students if job prospects don't meet expectations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to support the healthcare workforce. Specifically, the preamble states the Constitution is intended to "promote the general Welfare". Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The bill's provisions regarding student loans fall under Congress's power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare through financial aid programs for education.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).