OH HB520

Establishes the Navigator Pilot Program to assist public employees in applying for and navigating the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (20 U.S.C. 1087e(m)).

Chancellor of Higher Education shall solicit contracts from outside organizations or individuals with student debt forgiveness experience to administer the program from July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021.

Pilot program operates in collaboration with a community college, state university, and public agency or employer whose employees may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, with contracted organizations providing advice on employment certification forms, information on other loan forgiveness programs, and education on student loan rights and responsibilities by August 30, 2020.

Chancellor must submit a report to the General Assembly and Superintendent of Public Instruction by October 31, 2021 regarding implementation, outcomes, and recommendations on whether the pilot program should operate permanently.

Appropriates up to $200,000 from fiscal year 2021 operating expenses to fund the Navigator Pilot Program contracts.