New Jersey Assembly Bill AR89

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Urges Congress to pass H.R.770 allowing for discharge of student loan debt in bankruptcy.

Impact

If enacted, this resolution would affect existing bankruptcy laws regarding student loans. Currently, student loan debt is only dischargeable through bankruptcy in limited circumstances, requiring borrowers to demonstrate 'undue hardship.' H.R.770 aims to remove this limitation, aligning student loan debt dischargeability with that of other consumer debts, which would provide more individuals with the opportunity to seek relief through bankruptcy. This change could ease the financial burden on millions of Americans and enhance their economic mobility.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 89, introduced in New Jersey, urges Congress to pass H.R.770, a bill allowing for the discharge of student loan debt in bankruptcy. The resolution highlights the ongoing student loan crisis in the U.S., with approximately 45 million Americans collectively owing nearly $1.5 trillion. The increasing reliance on student loans, as government investment in higher education declines, has led a significant percentage of graduates to start their careers burdened by debt, impacting their financial stability and future goals.

Contention

There may be various perspectives on the potential passage of H.R.770. Supporters argue that allowing student loan debt to be discharged like other debts would recognize the crushing financial pressure exerted by these obligations. They contend that it would restore the possibility for affected individuals to rebuild their financial lives. Meanwhile, critics may raise concerns about the implications for federal student loan programs and the potential risk to taxpayers, as it could encourage borrowers to take on larger loans with less accountability.