Affording college is one of the largest barriers faced by Americans looking to expand their potential. For those reliant on student loans, the resulting debt payments remain an anchor dragging down their potential as consumers for many years after. ($300+ a month for 20 years in my case.)
For most Americans that could be a car payment, insurance for their families, or even a start on savings for the future.
I propose the following:
1. A Federally backed measure to enable all student loan debt held by a person to be consolidated into a single loan.
2. Expanded loan forgiveness programs based on PSLF for promising industries in a changed economy.
3. Alternatively, the ability to lengthen repayment terms at no penalty to reduce monthly financial burden if all else fails.