§24–1904.1.

    (a)    In addition to the assistance provided under § 24–1904 of this subtitle, the Department may, subject to the availability of money in the Fund, assist in the repayment of an education loan owed by a nurse or nursing support staff who:

        (1)    Practices a medical specialty that has been identified by the Department as being in shortage in the geographic area of the State where the nurse practices that specialty; and

        (2)    Commits to practicing in the area for a period of time determined by the Department.

    (b)    The Department shall prioritize funding for the repayment of education loans through the Program in the following order:

        (1)    Nurses or nursing support staff who meet the requirements under § 24–1904(b)(1) of this subtitle;

        (2)    Nurses or nursing support staff practicing in primary care in a geographic area where the Department has identified a shortage of nurses or nursing support staff; and

        (3)    Nurses or nursing support staff practicing in a medical specialty other than primary care in a geographic area where the Department has identified a shortage of that specialty.