Wyden, Merkley introduce bill to pause student loans during extended Government shutdowns

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) -- Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced Monday they are introducing a bill to pause student loan payments for federal employees during government shutdowns lasting longer than two weeks.

If approved, the measure would take effect immediately and halt the accrual of interest on affected loans. The proposal would also protect federal workers’ credit scores from being negatively impacted while paychecks are delayed.

Wyden and Merkley, both representing Oregon, said the legislation aims to ease the financial burden on public servants caught in budget standoffs. The bill has the backing of seven co-sponsoring senators from across the country.