Bill Description: Senate Bill 1287 would force taxpayers to subsidize the educational expenses of nurses who work in specific rural areas. 

Rating: -3

Does it create, expand, or enlarge any agency, board, program, function, or activity of government? Conversely, does it eliminate or curtail the size or scope of government?

Senate Bill 1287 creates Chapter 97, Title 39, Idaho Code, to establish a "rural nursing loan repayment program." This new government program includes a "rural nursing loan repayment fund" and a "rural nursing loan repayment grant review board."

(-1)

Does it increase government redistribution of wealth? Examples include the use of tax policy or other incentives to reward specific interest groups, businesses, politicians, or government employees with special favors or perks; transfer payments; and hiring additional government employees. Conversely, does it decrease government redistribution of wealth?

Senate Bill 1287 will offer certain nurses up to $25,000 per year and up to $75,000 in total of taxpayer-funded education loan repayment subsidies. To receive these handouts, the nurses will have to agree to work in "a rural area also designated by the United States secretary of health and human services as a health professional shortage area" or "all certified Idaho critical access hospitals."

(-1)

Does it increase government spending (for objectionable purposes) or debt? Conversely, does it decrease government spending or debt?

The fiscal note for Senate Bill 1287 suggests that in the initial phase of the program, the anticipated appropriation would be $250,000 per year. Nothing in the statutory scope of the program would prevent larger appropriations. 

(-1)