By Bob Katzen

The Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee held a hearing on legislation that would provide financial assistance to some human service workers to repay their student loans. Under the program, human service workers who work 12 consecutive months for a minimum of 35 hours per week and who have an individual income of no more than $50,000 can qualify for loan repayment of up to $150 per month for up to 48 months.

“Human service workers perform an extremely difficult job for woefully low wages,” said Rep. Jeff Roy (D-Franklin). “Assisting with repayment of student loans could help alleviate some of the financial burdens that new graduates face when choosing to work in their field of study. Given the cost of living in Massachusetts and the value added by ensuring that those who are in need receive the best care the commonwealth can give them, [this bill] seems a small step to show our human service workers that we value their important contributions.”