US House of Representatives Panel Advances Plan to Reshape Federal Education Oversight

A congressional committee has approved legislation that would permanently redistribute many of the U.S. Department of Education’s responsibilities to other federal agencies, advancing a broader effort to redefine the federal government’s role in education.

The US House of Representatives Committee on Education and Workforce has advanced a package of bills intended to codify the Trump administration’s initiative to discontinue the operations of the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). The effort permanently transfers many of the core functions and responsibilities of the USDE to other federal agencies. The legislation would also formalize existing inter-agency agreements that have already shifted functions such as student aid, workforce programs, and other education-related responsibilities to agencies including the Departments of Treasury and Labor.

Advocates argue the changes will streamline federal operations and return greater authority over education to states and local governments. Opponents contend the restructuring could create confusion and complicate access to federal education programs.

Although the committee’s action marks another significant step in the administration’s broader effort to reduce the federal role in education, the proposal still faces substantial hurdles before becoming law. Any measure to fully eliminate the Department of Education would require congressional approval, including passage in the Senate, where bipartisan support would likely be necessary. For Maryland counties, school systems, and community colleges, the legislation is worth monitoring because it could eventually alter how federal education programs are administered and how local education leaders interact with the federal government.

Education issues will be front and center at the 2026 MACo Summer Conference during the session, “Blueprint in Action: Building on Success and Finding Common Ground.” The discussion will examine how Maryland counties are furthering local education initiatives within the current, statewide, education reform structure. MACo’s Summer Conference, “Build What’s Next,” takes place August 12–15, 2026, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland. For more information, visit the conference website.

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