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As you may know, the federal “Big Beautiful Bill Act” (HR 1) eliminated Graduate PLUS loans and imposed new caps on federal borrowing for many graduate programs. Fields like nursing, social work, physical therapy, and education are now classified as “graduate” rather than “professional” programs, meaning students can borrow significantly less to finance their degrees.
This change takes effect July 1, and the impact could be severe. According to Ned Lamont, these federal changes represent one of the most significant shifts in student loan policy in decades. Without action, nearly $90 million in low-interest loan access could disappear for Connecticut students.
We are already facing serious shortages in nursing, primary care, mental health, and physical therapy. Derek Slap and I, as co-chairs of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, support Senate Bill 8, which would create the Connecticut Supplemental Graduate Student Loan Program, a state-level solution designed to fill the gap. The Governor has proposed $10 million in bonding to jumpstart the program.
At a recent hearing, leaders from the Connecticut Nurses Association and the American Physical Therapy Association testified that students are already reconsidering their futures due to uncertainty and affordability concerns. At the University of Connecticut School of Social Work, students shared fears that they may be forced into higher-cost private loans—or abandon graduate education altogether.
This isn’t just about financial aid. It’s about ensuring we have enough nurses, therapists, social workers, and educators to care for Connecticut families.
As co-chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, I strongly support swift action to protect our workforce pipeline and keep opportunity within reach for all.
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