Student Loan Changes in Effect

July 21, 2026

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Student Loan Changes in Effect
  • Advocating for a Cleaner Waterbury
  • Visiting Sunshine Lavender Farm
 

Student Loan Changes in Effect

New student loan rules are affecting more than 500,000 Connecticut residents with student debt. The changes from the federal government reduce repayment options, raise monthly payments for many, and make it more difficult for families to finance higher education.

Hera are the some of the biggest changes:

  • SAVE Plan ends: Borrowers have 90 days to choose a new repayment plan or will be automatically moved to the standard repayment plan, which could mean a sharply higher monthly bill.
  • Fewer repayment options: New borrowers now have just two repayment plans
  • Parent Plus loans: Parents are now limited to borrowing $20,000 per student each academic year instead of the full cost of attendance.
  • Grad PLUS program eliminated: Graduate students can no longer borrow up to the full cost of attendance through Grad PLUS.

If you’re affected by these changes, the Connecticut Office of the Student Loan Ombudsperson is here to answer questions, help with repayment issues, and much more.

Contact the Student Loan Ombudsperson:

Phone: (860) 240-8170 or 800-831-7225 and press option 2
Email: banking.complaints@ct.gov
Online: portal.ct.gov/DOB/Consumer/Consumer-Complaints/Student-Loan-Servicer

Eligible Connecticut residents may also qualify for the Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program, providing up to $5,000 per year (maximum $20,000) to help offset student loan payments.
Click here for application instructions
 

Advocating for a Cleaner Waterbury

I was pleased to participate in a recent Connecticut Equity and Environmental Justice Advisory Council (CEEJAC) Quarterly Meeting in Waterbury.

The day began with a community tour highlighting five locations that reflect both the environmental justice challenges and resilience of our city: Tirado Park, Platt Mill Park, Lakewood Beach, Adam Street Housing, and Riverside Cemetery. These sites help tell the story of Waterbury’s past and present while informing important conversations about environmental equity and community investment.
Following the tour, attendees gathered at the Mattatuck Museum for lunch and a workshop where we were welcomed by city leaders, local legislators, and DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. We recognized and thanked Dr. Mark Mitchell for his years of dedicated service as Co-Chair of CEEJAC as he steps down from his leadership role.

Environmental justice means ensuring that every Waterbury resident has access to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment. By addressing the legacy of industrial pollution and investing in healthier neighborhoods, we can reduce health disparities, improve quality of life, and create a stronger future for every community in our city.

Advocating with Senator Joan Hartley and Representative Geraldo Reyes
 

Visiting Sunshine Lavender Farm

As your state representative, I relish the opportunity to support local businesses. I recently had the pleasure of visiting the gorgeous and peaceful Sunshine Lavender Farm on North Walnut Street in Waterbury. From the scenic rows of flowers, fresh eggs, local honey, plants, and plenty of lavender, this special farm is a hidden gem.

Thank you to Andrea Santos and her husband for the warm welcome and invite. Their hard work and passion have created something truly unique for our community.

If you’re looking for a relaxing local destination, I encourage you to stop by and support this wonderful family farm. It’s another great reminder that you don’t have to travel far to find something special right here in Waterbury.