Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to Continue Under Education Nominee McMahon
Linda McMahon, the nominee for Secretary of Education, affirmed during her confirmation hearing that she will uphold the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
Despite potential pressure from the Trump administration, McMahon stated, "We should honor those programs" that provide loan forgiveness for public service. The PSLF allows government and nonprofit employees to have their student debt forgiven after making 10 years of on-time payments.
Previously criticized by Republicans for its cost, the PSLF program has been reformed under the Biden administration to streamline qualification and ease application. Changes include counting past payments and relaxing the definition of "on-time" payments.
McMahon emphasized that continuing the PSLF program aligns with the law. "Yes, because that's the law," she said.
While some advocate groups express concern about potential disruptions from the Trump administration, McMahon's commitment suggests a continued emphasis on student debt assistance. However, the process of undoing Biden's changes would be complex and time-consuming.