Rep. Sweeney testifies on legislation to help Ohio workers navigate the U.S. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Cleveland) today testified on House Bill (HB) 618 to help Ohio workers take advantage of the U.S. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. The legislation establishes a navigator pilot program and requires clear, concise information to be published online. 

“From nurses and teachers to firefighters and police officers, public servants make sacrifices to provide the essential services necessary for civil society. We made a promise that they could earn federal student loan forgiveness after 10 years of service and 120 monthly payments, but over 98% of applicants fall short,” said Rep. Sweeney. “This legislation is one small step we can take to help Ohioans understand what they need to do to earn forgiveness if they enter and stay in these much-needed jobs.”

Specifically, HB 618 requires the Director of Administrative Services to publish a fact sheet outlining loan forgiveness programs, a letter notifying public employees about eligibility requirements, a document with frequently asked questions, and any relevant document from a federal agency as determined by the Director. It also appropriates $200,000 to create a Navigator Pilot Program in collaboration with a community college, a state university and a public agency whose employees qualify for the U.S. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. 

Ohio has the 6th highest student debt per capita of all 50 states, with over $57 billion dollars in student debt, according to pre-pandemic statistics. HB 618 now awaits further consideration before the House Finance Committee.