Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) today announced he has joined a bipartisan effort to amend the state’s education law to expand student loan forgiveness for social workers. The legislation aims to encourage more social workers to work in underserved and rural communities by providing student-loan forgiveness awards.

Currently, thousands of social worker positions remain unfilled across New York state, particularly in the 44 counties with populations under 200,000 and in the 71 towns located in non-rural counties with population densities of fewer than 150 people per square mile.

“New York is facing a growing mental health crisis, and retaining qualified social workers is essential to addressing it,” said Meghan Hurlburt, chief of staff to Assemblyman Brian Maher. “Programs that incentivize graduates to serve in our communities will help strengthen the workforce and ensure individuals and families receive the support they need.”

“Social workers provide indispensable support to individuals and families across our communities, offering assistance in hospitals, public clinics and many other vital settings,” continued Hurlburt. “The shortage of social workers is a pressing issue. The New York State Social Worker Loan Forgiveness Incentive Program will help encourage graduates of approved New York colleges and universities to practice in underserved communities by offering student loan forgiveness awards.”

This legislation would help address these workforce shortages while ensuring social workers receive the support they need to serve communities across New York.