PSLF Coalition Responds to Rule Change
Last week, the Department of Education released its final rule, which threatens to undermine the program and disrupt the lives of those who rely on PSLF to make their career choices sustainable. The final rule would remove eligibility from employers that the Department deems to have engaged in illegal activities, thus limiting access to PSLF beyond the plain language of the statute.
The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program is a vital federal initiative that honors a fundamental promise made to public service workers: after ten years of service and consistent student loan payments, their remaining federal student loan debt will be forgiven. This program was never solely about financial relief; it was about strengthening communities by enabling dedicated professionals, such as public defenders, teachers, veterinarians, first responders, mental health workers, veterans, and others to remain in public service roles that often pay less than the private sector.
“This rule change is a major blow to the public servants who rely on the PSLF program,” said Verna Williams, CEO of Equal Justice Works. “For many, PSLF is the only reason a career in public service is even possible. Without it, countless teachers, nurses, and attorneys—whether they work in blue or red states—could be forced out of the work their communities depend on. By giving the Department of Education the power to disqualify employers dedicated to helping underserved populations based on vague, unsubstantiated allegations, this policy change turns PSLF into a political weapon rather than a nonpartisan, common-sense support for those who serve. It could strip organizations of eligibility without due process, thus leaving public servants in limbo. Policymakers must act now to protect PSLF and ensure that public service can continue free from political interference.”
“AccessLex is deeply disappointed by the decision to narrow the definition of qualifying employers under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program,” said AccessLex Institute President and CEO Christopher P. Chapman. “This new regulation threatens to undermine the very purpose of PSLF: encouraging talented professionals to pursue careers in public service. This risks destabilizing critical services in legal aid, education, healthcare, and social support, which will harm the communities that rely on these services every day.”
On behalf of the more than 120 organizations in the PSLF Coalition, we strongly oppose this rule. It is essential that the federal government protects the integrity of a program that has empowered thousands to serve the public good. Now is the time to reaffirm our nation’s commitment to public service, not roll it back.