On May 1, 2026, the Department of Education finalized regulation implementing changes included in H.R.1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The rule aims to lower the cost of college and streamline loan repayment programs. NACHC commented on the rule in March, urging the Department to:
- Weigh the possible effects of the proposed changes on the Community Health Center (CHC) workforce, a sizable portion of which relies on federal scholarship and loan repayment programs.
- Consider the potential negative impact a narrowed definition of “professional” degree may have on the workforce, given it further limits the amount of federal loans a student may receive.
While the Department acknowledged NACHC’s concerns, it finalized the rule largely as proposed, stating the intent is to “lower tuition…so that students may pursue careers in areas of high need without accumulating huge debt burdens.” The rule will go into effect on July 1, 2026.
