DOE opens negotiated-rulemaking hearing on Title IV rules, solicits public input on PSLF, IDR and borrower protections

The U.S. Department of Education on a virtual public hearing solicited public comment on potential regulatory changes to Title IV programs — putting particular focus on the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and income-driven repayment plans.

“...the department is soliciting feedback, specifically feedback on ways to streamline federal financial aid assistance that will maintain or improve program integrity and institutional quality,” said James Bergeron, Deputy Undersecretary of Education and Acting Undersecretary, during opening remarks.

Why it matters: Rules governing PSLF and income-driven repayment (IDR) determine who qualifies for loan forgiveness, how monthly payments are calculated and how months in “administrative” forbearance or servicer error are treated. Changes could affect millions of borrowers, the staffing of public and nonprofit employers, and colleges’ obligations under Title IV.

Public comments and recurring themes

Borrowers and borrower advocates used the hearing to describe personal hardship, processing delays, and what they said are inconsistent servicer practices. Adaku Anika Crawford, who identified herself as a former public servant and beneficiary of public‑interest programs, said these programs “are vitally important” and urged a broad definition of nonprofit employers for PSLF. Betsy Mayotte, president of the Institute of Student…