Sen. Theodros files bill in North Carolina Senate to study student loan forgiveness and retention program

A new bill filed by State Sen. Caleb Theodros in the North Carolina Senate aims to examine the feasibility of a student loan forgiveness and retention initiative, according to the North Carolina State Senate.

The bill, filed as SB 959 on April 30 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Study Student Loan Forgiveness Program/SEAA.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill directs the State Education Assistance Authority to study the feasibility and advisability of creating a Student Loan Forgiveness and Talent Retention Program for federal student loans held by graduates of North Carolina public universities and community colleges. The study must assess administrative options, fiscal impact, eligibility and residency rules, benefit levels, repayment mechanisms, interactions with federal programs, workforce and economic effects, and comparable programs in other states. The authority must report findings and recommendations by Oct. 1, 2027. The bill appropriates $150,000 in nonrecurring funds for the 2026-27 fiscal year, available until Oct. 1, 2027, and takes effect July 1, 2026.

Of the two sponsors of this bill, Theodros proposed the most bills (43) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Theodros graduated from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte with a BA.

Theodros, a Democrat, was elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 2025 to represent the state’s 41st Senate district, replacing previous state senator Natasha Marcus.