The future of student loan repayment policy

It is a critical moment for the future of federal student lending, as the Department of Education announced plans to begin garnishing wages for borrowers in default, House Republicans have proposed sweeping changes to student loan repayment through the reconciliation process, and millions of borrowers face uncertainty about their payment obligations and options.

On May 16, the Brookings Center for Economic Security and Opportunity will host Jason Delisle (Urban Institute), Jill Desjean (National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators), Lesley Turner (University of Chicago), and Sarah Turner (University of Virginia), for a timely discussion on the evolving landscape of federal student loan repayment policy. Our recent explainer on income-driven repayment highlights the complexity of the current system and the challenges facing both borrowers and policymakers.

The panel discussion will explore recent developments in student loan policy, including legislative proposals, administrative actions, and court decisions that are reshaping the repayment landscape. We will discuss how policymakers can balance borrower protection, institutional accountability, and fiscal sustainability.

Viewers can ask questions in advance by emailing [email protected] and on X @BrookingsEcon using #StudentLoans.