Connecticut lawmakers consider bill to forgive student loans

New legislation would forgive student loan debt for Connecticut residents who go into ‘green’ jobs, according to a report by the Associated Press.

The program would be similar to loan forgiveness incentives already offered nationally to educators and medical professionals. Those who go into green technology, life sciences and health information technology would receive a $2,500 or 5-percent reduction of their state and federal debt for up to four years. Funding for the program would come from a $6 million earmark.

Students would have to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and work in Connecticut for at least two years in order to qualify for the program. Paul Goulet, a 55 year old studying wastewater treatment at Goodwin College, told the Associated Press that he hoped to use the program for his $8,000 in loans.

"My only concern is that there’s so much talk about green jobs, I’m just wondering if there will be green jobs or if that’s just a fallacy," Goulet told the wire service.

National programs for student loan forgiveness are available for those who go into AmeriCorps, Peace Corps or the Army National Guard. Educators in low-income areas and lawyers who serve in non-profit positions can also receive forgiveness.

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