SB 638
Creating Forensic Pathology Recruitment Program
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill creates a program in West Virginia to incentivize medical doctors with forensic pathology training to work in the state. It aims to address a shortage of forensic pathologists by alleviating the burden of student loan debt. The Department of Health will administer the program, determining eligibility based on factors like employment with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and meeting specific loan repayment requirements. The program will fund loan repayments up to a maximum of $300,000 over a 10-year period, subject to available funds.
Key provisions
- Establishes a Forensic Pathology Recruitment Program to reduce student loan debt for forensic pathologists.
- Defines eligibility criteria, including employment with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and meeting loan repayment requirements.
- Designates the Department of Health to administer the program and oversee loan repayment awards.
- Creates a dedicated fund for the program, supported by state appropriations and deposits.
- Requires the Department of Health to develop and implement rules for the program.
- Sets a minimum salary for forensic pathologists employed by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
- Establishes a year-to-year award process with a first-come, first-served basis.
- Limits total loan repayment awards to $300,000 over a 10-year period.
Who is affected
- Medical doctors specializing in forensic pathology
- The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
- The Department of Health
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