New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S929

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires institutions of higher education and government employers to provide certain students and employees with information about Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Impact

The bill mandates that eligible institutions must inform students with outstanding federal student loan debt during their penultimate semester and upon application for graduation. This ensures that students are aware of the potential benefits available to them before they leave the higher education system. Similarly, it obligates qualifying government employers to educate their employees about the PSLF program through various methods, including electronic communication and written materials.

Summary

Senate Bill 929 requires public and private institutions of higher education in New Jersey, as well as government employers, to provide information regarding the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. This initiative aims to increase awareness among students and employees who may qualify for forgiveness of their federal student loans after completing ten years of full-time work in the public service sector. The information on the PSLF program will be shared at specific educational milestones for students and during employment for eligible government employees.

Contention

While the bill's proponents advocate for enhanced awareness of loan forgiveness programs, critics might argue that it places additional administrative burdens on educational institutions and employers. Furthermore, the successful implementation may rely on the effective dissemination of information to ensure that those who qualify are reached. Employers may have varying capacities to fulfill these requirements, raising concerns about compliance and the facilitation of necessary resources to assist with the PSLF application process.

Companion Bills

NJ A2158

Same As Requires institutions of higher education and government employers to provide certain students and employees with information about Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

NJ S1734

Carry Over Requires institutions of higher education and government employers to provide certain students and employees with information about Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

NJ A3689

Carry Over Requires institutions of higher education and government employers to provide certain students and employees with information about Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

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