Office of the Secretary of Higher EducationU.S. Department of Education Issues Proposed Interpretive Rule to Eliminate the Use of "Regional Accrediting Agencies"
On February 13, 2026, the U.S. Department of Education issued a proposed interpretive rule to eliminate the use of 'regional' by accrediting agencies, instead noting their scope should be as national or institutional. Comments on the rule must be received on or before March 19. The press release, link to the proposed rule, and link to submit a comment are available here.
U.S. Department of Education Releases Guidance Clarifying FERPA
On February 5, 2026, the U.S. Department of Education released guidance to all postsecondary education institutions regarding obligations under FERPA for student data privacy. The new guidance rescinds all Biden-era recommendations regarding the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE) data. The press release and guidance are available here.
U.S. Department of Education Announces Negotiated Rulemaking to Reform and Strengthen America's Higher Education Accreditation System
On January 26, 2026, U.S. ED announced the Accreditation, Innovation, and Modernization (AIM) negotiated rulemaking committee that will meet in April and May of this year. The Committee will address the topics of deregulation, student outcomes, merit, and integrity. U.S. ED is still accepting nominations for negotiators through February 27, 2026. More information about the AIM Committee and vision is available in their press release here.
Governor Sherrill Takes Action to Protect New Jerseyans’ Safety, Defend Constitutional Rights
On February 11, 2026, Governor Sherrill took action to announce Executive Order No. 12 to protect against ICE raids on state property, launch a ‘Know Your Rights’ website for residents, and the Office of the Attorney General launched a portal for residents to submit video footage of ICE interactions. The press release, including links to the related actions is available here.
The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education is continuing to compile information about any institutions who are experiencing issues with federal funding or other impacts due to federal action. Please submit a brief summary of issues to Stefani.Thachik@oshe.nj.gov if applicable to your institution. Find updates and resources regarding federal actions on OSHE's Federal Actions Impacting Higher Education page.
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