ASA Applauds Reintroduction of REDI Act

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) applauds Representatives Brian Babin, DDS (R-TX-36) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) for reintroducing H.R.2028, the Resident Education Deferred Interest (REDI) Act. This legislation would allow medical and dental residents to qualify for interest-free deferment on their student loans while completing their internship or residency programs. ASA supports the REDI Act as a crucial step toward addressing the physician workforce, making medical education more affordable, and improving health care outcomes nationwide.

Medical residents earn modest salaries and often struggle to begin repaying their student loans immediately. While deferment and forbearance options temporarily pause payments, interest continues to accrue, significantly increasing their overall debt burden. By preventing interest from accumulating during residency, the REDI Act would save residents thousands of dollars and eliminate a financial penalty for those still in training. Additionally, this relief could encourage more physicians to pursue careers in underserved areas, academic medicine, or research.

ASA remains committed to advocating for this legislation and will continue monitoring its progress.

Click here to read the bill text.

Click here to see the bill’s cosponsors.