House Bill 10-47, which makes an appropriation to reimburse health professionals who serve in small towns, passed final passage in the House after a floor presentation by Representative Norstrode.

Norstrode described the program as a longtime recruitment tool for communities under 10,000 people: the state reimburses tuition and other funds in exchange for a three-year service commitment from participating health professionals, including physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and dentists. He said the program has repeatedly been renewed and that this year’s cohort included six family physicians, one dentist, three physician assistants and three nurse practitioners who committed to serve in small communities.

Because the bill carries an appropriation and an emergency clause it required a two-thirds vote. The clerk reported ayes 67, excused 1; the bill was declared passed.

Votes at a glance: HB 10-47 — passed, two-thirds threshold met (ayes 67, excused 1). The bill continues a recurring rural recruitment reimbursement program; details on the appropriation amounts were not specified on the floor.