For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly requires otherwise:

(1)  “Authority” means the governmental agency and public instrumentality authorized, created and established pursuant to § 16-62-4.

(2)  “Eligible registered nurse” means an individual who holds a valid Rhode Island license to practice as a professional registered nurse and who works as a registered nurse in this state and can document that they work at least half time (average of twenty (20) hours per week).

(3)  “Loan” means a federal Stafford (FFELP) loan made by the authority or one of its participating lenders, issued after July 1, 2000 and not in default.

(4)  “Eligible employment” shall mean employment as a registered nurse responsible for patient care at any Rhode Island licensed health care facility, including, but not limited to, hospitals, nursing homes and home nursing care providers.