Overview
- The Education Department executed six interagency agreements moving day-to-day administration of major K‑12, postsecondary, tribal and international programs to Labor, Interior, Health and Human Services, and State.
- The department says it retains statutory oversight, including control of the $1.6 trillion federal student-loan portfolio and college accreditation.
- A coalition of unions, school districts and advocates broadened its lawsuit to challenge the new agreements, alleging the transfers are unlawful and could harm students.
- Interior’s expanded role in tribal education prompted warnings from some lawmakers about capacity and treaty obligations, while several Republicans called the shift logical given Interior’s existing responsibilities.
- Educators and advocates report confusion and potential delays in funding during early handoffs, with critics also warning that civil-rights and disability enforcement could be weakened.