Public Health and Bio-Preparedness Workforce Loan Repayment Reauthorization Act of 2025
Summary
The Public Health and Bio-Preparedness Workforce Loan Repayment Reauthorization Act of 2025 seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act. It aims to reauthorize the loan repayment program for public health and bio-preparedness professionals. The bill extends the program's authorization from fiscal years 2026 through 2030.
Expected Effects
This reauthorization will allow the continuation of loan repayment assistance for individuals working in public health and bio-preparedness. This will incentivize qualified professionals to enter and remain in these critical fields. The change directly impacts Section 776(i) of the Public Health Service Act.
Potential Benefits
- Encourages qualified individuals to pursue careers in public health and bio-preparedness.
- Helps retain experienced professionals in these fields.
- Addresses workforce shortages in critical public health areas.
- Improves the nation's capacity to respond to public health emergencies.
- Supports state and local health departments by providing them with qualified personnel.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending, although the bill does not specify funding levels.
- May not address all the underlying issues contributing to workforce shortages in public health.
- The program's effectiveness depends on proper implementation and oversight.
- Limited scope, focusing only on loan repayment rather than broader workforce development strategies.
- Possible administrative overhead associated with managing the loan repayment program.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes public health, which can be considered part of the 'general Welfare'. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8), and supporting public health workforce development falls under this purview.
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).