Summary
A new law, signed by President Trump, brings significant changes to U.S. education. It includes a new school voucher program and changes to federal education grants and aid programs, affecting students, schools, and colleges. The Education Department, led by Secretary Linda McMahon, has cut staff and paused grant funding while the law's new requirements are being implemented.
Key Facts
- President Trump signed a new education law called the "One Big Beautiful Bill" on July 4.
- The U.S. Department of Education has cut roughly half of its staff.
- The Department is withholding nearly $7 billion in grant funding for various school programs while reviewing it.
- The new law introduces a federal school voucher program for private and religious schools.
- To qualify for the voucher, a household income can be up to 300% of the area's median income.
- The Joint Committee on Taxation estimates the voucher program could cost the government $26 billion in lost tax revenue over ten years.
- The voucher program requires states to opt-in, meaning not all states will participate.
- Changes in the law also affect Medicaid in schools, student loans, Pell Grants, and school meal programs.
