- United States
- Fla.
- Letter
The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program has provided crucial support for dedicated public servants like myself, enabling us to pursue careers focused on advocating for underserved communities. As someone who pursued a Master's in Social Work to amplify the voices of children and families, the PSLF program was a vital factor in my decision. The proposed executive action to exclude certain organizations and individuals from this program threatens to undermine its intent and impact. PSLF was established to encourage individuals to enter public service professions, recognizing the societal value of their work. Redefining "public service" in a manner that disqualifies organizations engaged in legal activities protecting vulnerable populations would be a disservice to the very communities we strive to support. It would discourage talented individuals from pursuing careers dedicated to uplifting marginalized groups and addressing systemic inequities. I urge you to protect the PSLF program as it was originally conceived, ensuring that those who have made a commitment to public service can continue their critical work without the burden of overwhelming student loan debt. Preserving access to loan forgiveness is essential for maintaining a vibrant and diverse public service workforce, dedicated to serving the needs of all members of our society.