With the 119th Congress underway and control of both chambers established, congressional work on higher education policy has officially begun. Throughout congressional deliberations, one concerning proposal that has emerged is the potential elimination of the Grad PLUS program that many PA students rely on to complete their education. As Congress considers legislation this year, we are asking you to help protect Grad PLUS loan access today by reaching out to your congressional representatives today.

While reducing student loan debt in America remains a bipartisan goal, it is imperative that stakeholders consider policy solutions that address cost drivers for universities rather than forcing students into higher-interest loan options in the private market. For PA education, legislative action addressing cost drivers such as faculty and clinical site shortages would curb tuition increases for students without the need to eliminate Grad PLUS. Additionally, if forced to utilize higher interest student loans, PA graduates would be less likely to work in high-need areas in order to repay their debt faster.

PA students deserve access to borrowing options that empower them to address growing health workforce shortages and provide quality patient care without sacrificing their financial health after graduation. Please contact your elected officials in Congress and urge them to oppose the elimination of Grad PLUS as part of any future legislative proposal or budget reconciliation process.