Eyes on the Budget - Prioritizing Rural Loan Repayment Programs(s)
As we enter the final weeks, legislative attentions are focusing in on the budget. Initial drafts of department budgets have been introduced and formal negotiations are beginning. One budget area of particular interest is the funding allocation for the Iowa Rural Primary Care Loan Repayment Program. Initial proposals within the Department of Education appropriations bill (SSB 3201) have the program funding maintained at $2.5 million.
In a year when state budgeteers are also working to craft budgets in consideration of the proposed lowering of income tax rates, appropriations advocacy comes in two parts: First, ensure there is no reduction in funding as part of any cost-cutting measures. Second, seek additional funds to fully support the program as intended. With part one of the fundraising strategy secured, the negotiations to increase dollars begin.
Initial conversations have been positive, building off of legislative priorities throughout the session surrounding workforce development – specifically maternal and mental health shortages – and the particular interest taken by legislators from conversations with student physicians during Physician Day on the Hill. Stay alert for action alerts to come as we work with appropriations committee members to add $1.5 million to fully fund the loan repayment program.