Supreme Court Invalidates Biden's Student Loan Forgiveness Plan
Unprecedented Ruling Strikes Down Major Relief Program
High Court Cites Lack of Congressional Authorization
Washington, D.C. - In a landmark decision that will have far-reaching consequences for millions of student loan borrowers, the Supreme Court on Friday invalidated President Biden's plan to cancel student debt. The 6-3 ruling, with the Court's conservative majority prevailing, marks the first time the Court has struck down a major presidential program since the early 20th century.
The Biden administration's student loan forgiveness program was announced in August 2022 and aimed to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for borrowers earning less than $125,000 per year. The program was challenged by several states and conservative advocacy groups, who argued that the president lacked the legal authority to implement it without Congressional approval.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court agreed with the challengers. Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts argued that the Biden administration had exceeded its authority under the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students (HEROES) Act, which gives the president the authority to waive student loans in the event of a national emergency.
"The HEROES Act does not give the executive branch the clear congressional authorization to cancel student debt on a massive scale," Roberts wrote. "The power wielded by the executive here is unprecedented."
The ruling is a major setback for President Biden and his administration, who have argued that the student loan forgiveness program was necessary to help borrowers struggling with the burden of debt. The White House has indicated that it is exploring other options to provide relief to student loan borrowers, but it is unclear what those options may be.
The Supreme Court's ruling is likely to have a significant impact on millions of Americans who were hoping to have their student debt forgiven. It is also likely to fuel further debate about the role of the executive branch in implementing social programs.
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