CDA has submitted public comments to the U.S. Department of Education in response to its proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and the federal loan provisions enacted in H.R. 1, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act.
CDA’s comments emphasize that the proposals pose risks for dentists working in nonprofit and public health settings who rely on PSLF to manage their student debt while serving vulnerable patient populations. The letter also highlights how new federal loan caps and the elimination of the Graduate PLUS loan program will limit access to dental education and exacerbate workforce shortages in rural and underserved communities.
“This proposal has significant implications not only for dental students, but also for the patients and communities that depend on their care,” CDA wrote in its letter to the department. “Our goal is to ensure that federal policy continues to support access to oral health care and the future stability of the dental workforce.”
Federal impacts on dentistry: New CDA resource
Alongside the public comment process, CDA has published Key Provisions of H.R.1 and its Impact on Dentistry in California, a two-page resource to help members understand how H.R. 1 is impacting student loan borrowers and Medi-Cal Dental providers, as well as most dental practices and the dental workforce generally through various tax provisions. The resource provides context, analysis and guidance for members navigating the changes.
Dentists can visit CDA’s Federal Impacts on Dentistry in California webpage for more news and support.
Advocacy continues: Watch for more updates
CDA will continue collaborating with ADA and others to monitor the rulemaking process and advocate for policies that protect access to care and support the next generation of dentists.
The Department of Education is expected to review and finalize its federal loan regulations as early as November with an implementation date of July 2026. CDA will publish updates in the newsroom and in the weekly member newsletter, Inside California Dentistry. CDA members who are not receiving the newsletter or are not sure if they are receiving it are encouraged to review their email preferences and subscribe.