Washington Update: Higher Education Policy, Regulations, and Insights

Changing Higher Ed

This episode of Washington Update examines significant changes and updates in higher education policy, with a focus on the Higher Education Act of 2019, the FAFSA Simplification Act, and various Title regulations. The discussion highlights the Biden-Harris administration's active role in Negotiated Rulemaking since late 2020, bringing about a comprehensive set of regulations affecting higher education.

Washington Updates Discussed:

• Higher Education Act 2019 Changes: Emphasis on the need for a comprehensive review of the act, touching on Title II (teacher education), Title IV (federal student financial aid), and Title IX (campus security).
• Negotiated Rulemaking Under Biden-Harris Administration: Overview of the regulatory revisions, including a new oversight set for all higher education institutions, termed as financial value transparency, an extension of the gainful employment regulations.
• Future Implementation: Discussion on the timeline for the implementation of these regulations, with the complete effect expected by July 1, 2024, and subsequent assessments in 2025 and 2026.
• Major Regulation Changes: Insight into the recent large set of regulations impacting financial responsibility, administrative capability certification procedures, and ability to benefit regulations.
• Title IX Updates: Exploration of changes brought about by Title IX, awaiting major revisions related to campus security, including LBGTQ+ communities, and protection against bullying and cyberbullying.
• Impending FAFSA Updates: Discussion on the forthcoming 2024-2025 FAFSA, reflecting changes from the FAFSA simplification law of 2019, to be released by December 31st.

Three Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders:

1. Cybersecurity: Emphasis on compliance with FTC safeguard rules and upcoming changes from the Department of Education.
2. Regulatory Change Impact: Urging financial aid departments to understand the implications of recent proposals, especially on financial responsibility and administrative capability.
3. Borrower Defense to Repayment: Encouraging institutions to review claims thoroughly to understand their substance.

Final Thoughts: The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolving landscape in higher education policy, highlighting the need for higher education leaders to stay informed and proactive in adapting to these changes.

Read the transcript →

About Our Guest

Tom Netting

TEN Government Strategies CEO Tom Netting, a regular guest on the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, provides updates on the latest coming out of Washington, D.C., and how these will impact institutions and students.

Having spent all of his professional career devoted to higher education policy oversight and implementation, Tom Netting has an extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations governing all aspects of higher education. His considerable background and experience have afforded him the opportunity to view the development and implementation of federal higher education and workforce development policy in their entirety – including issues related to higher education and workforce development, health care, veteran affairs policies, and the procurement of federal appropriations.

Tom Netting on LinkedIn →

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed® podcast, is a consultant to higher education institutions with a focus on governance, accreditation, strategy, change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm’s website: https://changinghighered.com/.

The Change Leader’s Social Media Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
• Email: [e-mail]

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