Clarity in Professional Degree Act
Summary
The Clarity in Professional Degree Act aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 by expanding the definition of "professional degree." This expansion seeks to reinstate eligibility for Federal student aid programs for students in specific health, education, and graduate programs. The bill addresses concerns that a recent reclassification by the Department of Education could negatively impact students with disabilities and exacerbate workforce shortages.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill will broaden the scope of "professional degree" programs that qualify for Federal student aid. This change would allow students in fields like nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work, accounting, architecture, special education, music education, world languages, and public health to maintain or regain access to federal student aid. The intended outcome is to support these professions and prevent potential workforce shortages.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to federal student aid for students in specified professional degree programs.
- Potential reduction in workforce shortages in critical fields like healthcare and education.
- Support for students with disabilities who may be disproportionately affected by changes in student aid eligibility.
- Alignment with the goal of promoting a skilled and educated workforce.
- Clarification of the definition of "professional degree" to avoid future ambiguity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in the overall cost of federal student aid programs.
- Possible debate over which professions should be included in the expanded definition.
- Risk of unintended consequences from altering established regulations.
- The bill does not address the root causes of rising tuition costs, which contribute to student debt.
- The expansion of aid eligibility could strain federal resources if not managed effectively.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily based on the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). This clause allows Congress to enact laws that "promote the general Welfare." By expanding access to education and supporting critical professions, the bill arguably contributes to the overall well-being of the nation. However, the bill must also comply with the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, ensuring that the criteria for professional degree eligibility are not discriminatory.
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).