Topics Covered by the Rulemaking

This rulemaking will focus on a variety of issues related to enhancing program integrity in higher education, as well as a subcommittee tasked with focusing on TRIO-related issues. The agenda will cover:

• The Secretary's recognition of accrediting agencies under 34 CFR part 602 and related parts.
• Institutional eligibility under 34 CFR 600.2, including State authorization as a component of such eligibility under 34 CFR 600.9.
• The requirements for distance education under 34 CFR 600.2 that pertain to clock hour programs and reporting for students who enroll primarily online.
• Return of Title IV funds, to address requirements for participating institutions to return unearned Title IV funds in a manner that protects students and taxpayers while easing the administrative burden for institutions of higher education under 34 CFR 668.22.
• Cash management, to address timely student access to disbursements of Title IV, HEA Federal student financial assistance and provisions related to credit balances, escheatment, and loss of such funds under 34 CFR part 668, subpart K.
• The eligibility requirements for participants in the Federal TRIO Programs.

For frequently asked questions about negotiated rulemaking, please visit ED's Negotiated Rulemaking FAQ page.