Episode 44: Where Is Congress on Student Voter Access and Public Service Loan Forgiveness?

Hosts Jon Fansmith and Mushtaq Gunja talk with Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD), chief author of H.R. 1, the comprehensive election reform bill that could have an impact on how colleges register voters. They also discuss the past, present, and future of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program as Sarbanes moves to strengthen the program under the Biden administration.

EPISODE NOTES

Here are some of the links and references from this week’s show:

From Introduction:

Senate punts on China bill amid GOP objections

White House Releases Budget With Increased Funding for NIH, NSF

Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education Announces Public Hearings on Protections for Students, Loan Repayment, Targeted Loan Cancellation Programs, and Other Higher Education Regulations
U.S. Department of Education

From Conversation with Rep. Sarbanes:

John Sarbanes Biography

H.R.1 - For the People Act of 2021

Here’s What H.R. 1, the House-Passed Voting Rights Bill, Would Do
The Washington Post (sub. req.) | May 11, 2021

Biden Administration Will Review Income Based Repayment, Student Loan Forgiveness Programs
Forbes | May 24, 2021

Charles Testifies Before House Committee on Voting Rights Legislation

ABOUT THE SHOW

Each episode of dotEDU presents a deep dive into a major public policy issue impacting college campuses and students across the country. Hosts from ACE are joined by guest experts to lead you through thought-provoking conversations on topics such as campus free speech, diversity in admissions, college costs and affordability, and more. Find all episodes of the podcast at the dotEDU page.

Tweet suggestions, links, and questions to @ACEducation or email podcast@acenet.edu.

HOSTS

Jon Fansmith is a director of government relations at ACE. He represents ACE and its members on matters related to the federal budget and appropriations process, with a particular focus on student aid.

Mushtaq Gunja serves as vice president and chief of staff at ACE, where he is in charge of strategic initiatives, communications, and membership.