In response to recent headlines, we want to provide further clarity for the higher education community. On March 13, 2025, a coalition of state attorneys general led by New York filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts challenging the Department of Education’s recent reduction-in-force and related restructuring efforts, alleging they amounted to an unlawful attempt to dismantle the agency. The Federal Government replied on April 11th stating that while the Department of Education is undergoing internal restructuring and staff reductions, all statutory programs will continue without interruption.
For the higher education community, this means that financial aid programs, institutional support, and compliance functions remain in place. The Department has publicly committed in court filings to upholding its responsibilities, and no statutory programs are being eliminated. Critical services like Pell Grants, federal student aid, and support for Title III and Title V institutions, remain in place. The Department has reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling all legal obligations. Further, the Department conceded that the long-term goal of closing the Department would require congressional authorization, which they acknowledge has not been granted.
We’re closely monitoring developments and will continue to provide clear, steady updates as the situation evolves.
