- Economic Relief Package: This morning, the House of Representatives overwhelming approved an economic relief package that includes, but is not limited to, funding for paid sick leave, unemployment insurance, free COVID‐19 testing, and food assistance. Higher education is not mentioned in the bill text, and a moratorium on student loan payments was not included in the final version of the bill. The measure is expected to be passed in the Senate next week and signed by President Trump.
- Student Loan Interest Waived: During remarks at the White House yesterday, President Trump stated that he will waive interest on student loans held by federal agencies until further notice. The policy change, which applies to all federal student loan repayment plans, will be implemented automatically next week and be retroactive to March 13. It remains unclear whether borrower payments will be adjusted to reflect the new interest rate. More details on the policy change are expected from U.S. Department of Education officials soon.
- Legislative Package for Education Announced: Sen. Patty Murray (D‐WA), ranking member of the Senate HELP Committee, announced a legislative package yesterday addressing disruptions in education brought on by COVID‐19. It includes provisions for early childhood, K‐12, and higher education. The measure is cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D‐NY) and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D‐NY). A companion bill has been introduced by Democrats in the House of Representatives. The legislation includes:
$1.2 billion for grants to governors to provide funding for K‐12 and higher education institutions to plan for closure, such as providing meals to students, supporting efforts to clean and sanitize educational facilities, providing training on how to ensure buildings are safe for students’ return, and coordinating response efforts with public health departments and other agencies.
$1.2 billion in emergency financial aid for students to address basic needs resulting from the COVID‐19 disruptions, including food, housing, health care, and childcare needs. The funds would be provided to colleges and universities who would will make the grants to students.
A waiver for Title IV rules related to paying back Pell Grants or repaying loans that were taken out during a disrupted term. The legislation also loosens financial aid rules related to satisfactory academic progress and subsidized loans.
Flexibility for foreign institutions of higher education serving American students abroad through distance education.
- FERPA FAQ Posted: The U.S. Department of Education posted a document to assist school officials with frequently asked questions related to applicability of FERPA to disclosures related to COVID‐19.
- Fact Sheet on Arrival Restrictions: The Department of Homeland Security has posted a fact sheet with information on COVID‐19 travel restrictions. These travel restrictions stem from three proclamations from President Trump banning the entry of non‐U.S. citizens who are from or have recently been in China, Iran, or 26 European countries. Today this ban was extended to include the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Source: State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO)