Restoring Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Authority: The President enacts this order under the Constitution and U.S. law.

Background:

• PSLF Program was established in 2007 by Congress to incentivize public service jobs.
• The program promises student loan forgiveness after 10 years of service and minimum payments.

Issues Identified:

• The previous administration abused the PSLF through a waiver process, misallocating taxpayer funds.
• PSLF misdirects resources into activist organizations that undermine national security and American values.
• The program potentially increases tuition costs and burdens students with unsuitable debt.

National Security:

• The President’s duty includes ending subsidies for illegal activities that threaten U.S. security, such as:
  • Illegal immigration
  • Human smuggling
  • Child trafficking
  • Public property damage
  • Disruption of public order

Policy Changes:

• Individuals employed by organizations with substantial illegal activities shall be ineligible for PSLF.

Definition Revisions:

• The Secretary of Education will propose changes to 34 C.F.R. 685.219 to redefine “public service” to exclude:
  • Activities violating federal immigration laws.
  • Supporting terrorism or facilitating operations of designated cartels.
  • Child abuse or trafficking children to evade lawful parents.
  • Aiding and abetting illegal discrimination.
  • Violating state tort laws including trespassing, vandalism, and disorderly conduct.

Legal Provisions:

• The order does not impair the authority of executive departments or the Office of Management and Budget.
• It is subject to applicable laws and budget appropriations.
• The order does not create enforceable rights against the U.S. or its entities.