H.R.2899 - Preventing Risky Operations from Threatening the Education and Career Trajectories of Students Act of 2025; PROTECT Students Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2899, the PROTECT Students Act of 2025, aims to enhance accountability and transparency in higher education, particularly concerning for-profit institutions. The bill introduces measures to protect students and taxpayers by addressing issues such as gainful employment, borrower defense, and institutional oversight. It seeks to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to improve the integrity of institutions and their contractors, while also enhancing access to information for students and taxpayers.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely result in stricter regulations for institutions of higher education, especially for-profit ones. This could lead to improved student outcomes and reduced taxpayer burden related to student loan defaults. Additionally, increased transparency and oversight may deter misconduct and misrepresentation by educational institutions.
Potential Benefits
- Increased protection for students against predatory practices by institutions.
- Enhanced transparency regarding institutional spending and student outcomes.
- Stronger enforcement mechanisms to address misconduct and non-compliance.
- Improved access to borrower defense and closed school discharge options.
- Greater accountability for institutions regarding job placement rates and gainful employment standards.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased regulatory burden on institutions, potentially leading to higher administrative costs.
- Possible unintended consequences for smaller or less well-funded institutions.
- Potential for disputes over the interpretation and implementation of new regulations.
- Risk of reduced innovation in higher education due to increased compliance requirements.
- Possible delays in processing student aid due to more stringent oversight procedures.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on regulating higher education and student loans primarily aligns with Congress's power to provide for the general welfare under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. The emphasis on transparency and accountability could also be seen as promoting a more informed citizenry, which is essential for a functioning democracy. However, some provisions related to institutional oversight might raise concerns about federal overreach into areas traditionally regulated by states.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).