Lawmakers Introduce Resolution to Repeal New Department of Education Student Loan Rules

A coalition of lawmakers has announced a formal effort to overturn recent Department of Education regulations that would cap federal student loans and overhaul the existing lending system. The move, centered on a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution, aims to protect access to affordable higher education and prevent what critics describe as an increased reliance on high-interest private lenders.

The resolution was announced on May 7, 2026, by a group of legislators including Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Rep. John Mannion (D-NY), Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL), and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).

The Impact on Professional Degrees and Public Service

At the heart of the dispute is a finalized rule from the Department of Education that narrows the definition of a “professional degree” for the purpose of establishing federal loan caps. Lawmakers argue that this change will have a cascading effect on essential public service sectors.

By limiting the scope of professional degree definitions, the rule may force students pursuing critical roles to seek financing outside of the federal system. Specifically, the coalition noted that the following professions could be disproportionately affected:

• Nurses
• Social workers
• Teachers
• Firefighters
• Physical and occupational therapists

The lawmakers contend that these students may be pushed toward predatory, high-interest private lenders to complete their degrees, significantly increasing the long-term financial burden of entering public service careers.

Key Changes to the Student Loan System

Beyond the implications for professional degree caps, the Department of Education’s new rule introduces several structural changes to federal student aid:

Elimination of the Grad PLUS Program

The rule officially eliminates the Grad PLUS program, a key component of federal student aid that has historically provided graduate students with access to additional funding.

New Repayment Options

The overhaul creates new loan repayment options that lawmakers characterize as less affordable for the average borrower. The coalition argues that these changes come at a time when families are already facing economic pressure from rising costs for basic necessities.

Legislative Response and Political Context

The introduction of the CRA resolution marks a significant legislative pushback against the administration’s economic and educational policies. The resolution will be introduced to Congress as soon as the rule is officially received.

Rep. Suzanne Bonamici expressed deep concern regarding the accessibility of public service jobs, stating, “I’ve spoken with nurses, teachers, firefighters, and many others who are concerned about how the Trump administration is making it even harder and more expensive for students to enter these critical public service jobs.” She further criticized the removal of affordable repayment plans amidst rising costs for gas and other basic needs.

Senator Jeff Merkley joined the criticism, labeling the new regulations as a “‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ law” and characterizing the move as a direct attack on hardworking Americans attempting to access higher education.

Key Takeaways

• Legislative Action: Lawmakers are utilizing the Congressional Review Act to repeal new Department of Education student loan rules.
• Professional Risks: Changes to the definition of professional degrees may force students in fields like nursing and teaching toward private, high-interest loans.
• Program Changes: The new rules eliminate the Grad PLUS program and introduce less affordable repayment structures.
• Economic Concerns: Opponents argue the rules increase the cost of entry for public service roles during a period of high inflation and rising living costs.