Legislative Tracker: Appropriations and Budget
On this page you'll find proposals regarding appropriations and budget impacting higher education.
S.4269 — Restoring College Access and Affordability Act
Sponsor: Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT]
Introduced: 03/26/2026
NASFAA Summary: This bill would largely reverse recent changes to federal student aid policy by repealing multiple provisions enacted under a prior reconciliation law. Specifically, it eliminates updates to federal student loan limits, repayment plans, deferment and forbearance options, and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, effectively restoring those programs to their previous rules. It also repeals changes to Pell Grant eligibility and how Pell Grants are calculated alongside other forms of aid, again reverting to prior policy. In addition, the bill modifies provisions related to program eligibility tied to earnings outcomes by redefining “covered educational programs,” and removes delays to borrower defense and closed school discharge regulations. Finally, it sets the excise tax on certain private college endowments at a flat 1.4% beginning after 2025.
H.R.5850 — GRAD Act
Sponsor: Rep. Figures [D-AL]
Introduced: 10/28/2025
NASFAA Summary & Analysis: This bill would require institutions to maintain a student’s enrollment status if their federal financial aid is disrupted due to a lapse in government appropriations.
H.R.4588 — Supporting Apprenticeship Colleges Act of 2025
Sponsor: Rep. Craig [D-MN]
Introduced: 07/22/2025
NASFAA Summary & Analysis: This bill seeks to create a secure, comprehensive data system within the Department of Education to track student outcomes across colleges. It would collect and report data on enrollment, completion, and post-college earnings by program and institution, as well as information on cost and financial aid, while protecting student privacy. The bill aims to provide students and families with clearer information to make informed decisions about college and career paths.
H.R.433 — Department of Education Protection Act
Sponsor: Rep. Hayes [D-CT]
Introduced: 01/15/2025
NASFAA Summary & Analysis: This bill prohibits the use of previously appropriated funds to implement any reorganization of the Department of Education.. The bill specifically prevents decentralization, staff reductions, or changes to the Department’s structure, authority, or functions compared to its state on January 1, 2025.
Publication Date: 3/26/2026
