H.R. 6672: Mental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Act of 2025

The Mental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Act of 2025 aims to address the shortage of mental health professionals in the United States through the establishment of a loan repayment program. The key points of the bill include:

Loan Repayment Program

The bill authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Health Resources and Services Administration, to implement a program where:

• The government enters into agreements with eligible mental health professionals.
• These professionals can receive payments to help repay their student loans in exchange for agreeing to work in areas designated as having a shortage of mental health professionals.

Details of Payments

Under this program, the payments are structured as follows:

• For each year of required service in a mental health professional shortage area, the Secretary will pay:
• One-sixth of the principal and interest on eligible loans for each year of service performed.
• The remaining balance after six years of service.
• The maximum payment that can be made to an individual is capped at $250,000.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for loan repayment, applicants must have:

• Obtained education in mental health or related fields leading to a master’s or doctoral degree.
• Loans such as Federal Direct Stafford Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, or any federal loan deemed appropriate by the Secretary.

Service Requirements

Participants in the program must complete:

• Up to six years of full-time service as a mental health professional in designated shortage areas.
• No more than one year may pass between two years of covered employment.

Ineligibility for Double Benefits

Borrowers cannot receive benefits from this repayment program alongside any other federally supported loan forgiveness programs for the same service.

Additional Provisions

The Secretary has the authority to create criteria and rules to implement the program effectively and must report to Congress every two years regarding:

• The number and locations of borrowers qualifying for loan repayments.
• The impact of the program on accessing mental health services in shortage areas.

Budget Authorization

The bill authorizes the appropriation of $25 million annually for the implementation of this program from fiscal years 2026 to 2035.

Definitions

The bill defines key terms such as:

• Mental health professional: Includes various roles such as physicians, nurses, social workers, and therapists focused on treating mental health disorders.
• Mental health professional shortage area: Areas designated due to a shortage of mental health professionals, which may include various types of clinics and facilities.

Relevant Companies

• None found