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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) The Bank of North Dakota is suspending a program that allows borrowers to consolidate federal student loans.

Julie Kubisiak, director of the student loan program, says federal legislation raised fees for lenders in the Federal Consolidation Loan program.

She says it's no longer economically feasible for the state-owned bank to stay in the program.

The bank will continue to service all existing consolidated loans.

Information from: The Forum, http://www.in-forum.com (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 05-24-08 1430CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list