New Mexico Statutes Chapter 21. State and Private Education Institutions § 21-22B-4. Nursing student loans; commission [department] authorized; qualification

A. The commission [department] is authorized to grant a loan to defray the expenses of the nursing education of a student deemed qualified by the commission [department] to receive the same, upon such terms and conditions as may be imposed by regulations of the commission [department].

B. The commission [department] shall only receive, pass upon and allow or disallow those applications for loans made by those students enrolled or accepted by programs of nursing who are bona fide citizens and residents of the United States and of New Mexico and who declare their intent to practice nursing within designated areas of the state.

C. The commission [department] shall make a full and careful investigation of the ability, character and qualifications of each applicant and determine fitness to become a recipient of a student loan. The investigation of each applicant shall include an investigation of the ability of the applicant and the applicant's parents or guardians to pay the applicant's expenses for a nursing education. The commission [department] shall give preference to qualified applicants who are unable, or whose parents or guardians are unable, to pay the applicant's expenses in obtaining a nursing education.

D. The commission [department] shall arrange for loan recipients to receive assistance in locating appropriate practice positions in designated underserved areas.