Pathways to Health Careers Act

The Pathways to Health Careers Act, effective October 1, 2026, establishes the Health Profession Opportunity Grants (HPOG) program to help low-income individuals enter and advance in well-paying health professions. This initiative focuses on a career pathways approach, providing comprehensive training and support services. Eligible participants are those with family incomes up to 200 percent of the Federal poverty level. Grant applicants must detail their career pathways approach, including adult basic education, work readiness, training, and case management. Projects are required to guarantee essential support services like child care and transportation , alongside career coaching. Applicants must also demonstrate experience with low-income populations or partner with experienced organizations. The bill introduces two distinct demonstration projects. One aims to train individuals with arrest or conviction records for health professions, contingent on state policies allowing their credentialing. The second focuses on the maternal mortality career pathway , preparing individuals such as doulas and midwives in states that recognize and compensate these roles. The Act appropriates $435 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for the program, with specific allocations for competitive grants, Indian populations, territories, and demonstration projects. Funds are also dedicated to providing technical assistance and conducting rigorous evaluations of the projects. Grantees must report on participant outcomes, including employment and credential attainment, and cash stipends or emergency assistance provided are not considered income for tax purposes.