The US Department of Education has halted the cancellation of student loans in Income-Based Repayment plans, prompting concern among borrowers that their loans will not be forgiven anytime soon.

There are an estimated 2 million borrowers who are currently enrolled in IBR. Many of them are approaching forgiveness but face delays and may still be required to make monthly payments even if they qualify for forgiveness.

Trump’s firing of 1,300 DOE workers is bad news for all student loan recipients and K-12 students alike. Truthout’s independent journalism is funded by readers like you. Support journalism for the 99 percent: Make a one-time or monthly donation during our fundraiser.