This legislation aims to safeguard federal employees from financial repercussions on their student loans during periods of federal government shutdowns, officially termed "involuntary disruption of pay." It specifically prohibits the assessment of late fees, penalties, or other adverse actions on qualified education loans for any payments missed during such disruptions. Furthermore, the bill mandates a waiver on interest accrual for these loans throughout the shutdown period, ensuring no additional interest is incurred. It also directs the Secretary of Education to coordinate with credit reporting agencies and loan servicers to prevent any adverse credit reporting related to delayed or missed payments by federal employees during these times. Significantly, the provisions of this act apply retroactively to any involuntary disruption of pay occurring on or after October 1, 2025, requiring the removal of any adverse credit information reported in error. The Secretary of Education, in coordination with other agencies, is tasked with issuing necessary regulations and guidance for implementation within 30 days of enactment. This measure does not, however, excuse the full repayment of qualified education loans.
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Education
HELP FEDs Act
USA119th CongressHR-5816| House
| Updated: 10/24/2025
This legislation aims to safeguard federal employees from financial repercussions on their student loans during periods of federal government shutdowns, officially termed "involuntary disruption of pay." It specifically prohibits the assessment of late fees, penalties, or other adverse actions on qualified education loans for any payments missed during such disruptions. Furthermore, the bill mandates a waiver on interest accrual for these loans throughout the shutdown period, ensuring no additional interest is incurred. It also directs the Secretary of Education to coordinate with credit reporting agencies and loan servicers to prevent any adverse credit reporting related to delayed or missed payments by federal employees during these times. Significantly, the provisions of this act apply retroactively to any involuntary disruption of pay occurring on or after October 1, 2025, requiring the removal of any adverse credit information reported in error. The Secretary of Education, in coordination with other agencies, is tasked with issuing necessary regulations and guidance for implementation within 30 days of enactment. This measure does not, however, excuse the full repayment of qualified education loans.