Defer Student Loans for Survivors of Sexual Harassment and Assault

Floor Speech

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Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, LaQuisha Anthony, a Philadelphia native, was an undergraduate track star at Kutztown University in my district. Horrifically, in her freshman year, she was sexually assaulted.

LaQuisha was forced to withdraw from her studies to focus on her recovery. She faced crushing student loan debt, and when repayments began, she ultimately defaulted.

Heartbreakingly, LaQuisha's story is not uncommon. Many survivors are not afforded enough time, space, or peace to heal. That is why I am reintroducing the Student Loan Deferment for Sex-Based Harassment Survivors Act to provide a compassionate, sensible exception to the student loan repayment policy.

This bill would allow survivors of sexual harassment, stalking, and assault to pause student loan payments for up to 3 years so they can focus on their mental and physical well-being. This pause is practical. Without it, many like LaQuisha are unable to return to school because of outstanding loans, but with time to heal, survivors can get a fresh start.

Today, LaQuisha is a dedicated advocate in preventing sexual assault and supporting survivors, including her support of this bill.

Let her work be our light. Let us pass this legislation.

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