Quoted by The Epoch Times
A Federal Judge in Texas has put on hold a rule that limits the length of career training programs that qualify for federal student aid. It is a significant component of the federal government’s effort to tighten oversight of for-profit schools.
The rule was scheduled to take effect on July 1. But U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman of the Northern District of Texas issued the temporary restraining order on June 21, by taking side with a national association of for-profit colleges.
More Read
The rule was designed to restrict education programs leading to professional licensure or certification to the minimum number of clock hours required by the state. Programs exceeding this minimum would become ineligible for federal student aid.
The rule sought to replace the current standard, which has been in place since 1994, allowing programs to remain eligible if they are no longer than 150 percent of the state-required minimum.
Moreover, The U.S. Department of Education finalized this rule in October 2023 as part of a broader package of regulations.
“The Department had relied on the notion that the 150 percent limitation gave latitude for institutions to provide quality programs and furnishes a sufficient safeguard against the abuses of course stretching,” it explained. “However, a program that exceeds length requirements by 50 percent is costing students and taxpayers a substantial amount for training that is not necessary to obtain employment.”
