Trump Administration Moves to Reassign Key Education Department Functions to HHS and DOJ

The Trump administration has taken aggressive steps to effectively dismantle the U.S. Department of Education by reassigning its core functions. Civil rights enforcement in schools will now be overseen by the Department of Justice, while special education and rehabilitative services will move to the Department of Health and Human Services. This move, announced on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, and further detailed in recent reports, has drawn criticism from disability rights advocates and senators from both parties. Critics express concerns about the impact on vulnerable students, warning it could fragment support for students with disabilities and potentially shift the approach to disabilities from an educational to a medical model. While the administration frames these changes as a way to reduce federal bureaucracy and improve efficiency, opponents argue it leaves families without the necessary resources and clear pathways for accountability. Congress has not approved the abolition of the department, and some lawmakers are considering legislative action to counter these changes.

Context

The Trump administration's decision to reassign core functions of the Department of Education comes amid broader efforts to reduce federal involvement in various sectors. The Department of Justice will now handle civil rights enforcement in schools, while the Department of Health and Human Services will oversee special education services. This restructuring has sparked bipartisan criticism, particularly from disability rights advocates.

Why it matters

The reassignment of key functions from the Department of Education to other agencies raises significant concerns about the future of civil rights and support for students with disabilities. This shift could lead to a fragmented approach to education and services for vulnerable populations. It highlights ongoing debates about the role of federal oversight in education and the protection of student rights.

Implications

The reallocation of responsibilities could lead to a decrease in effective support for students with disabilities, as services may become less coordinated. Families may face increased challenges in navigating the educational system without clear accountability mechanisms. The changes may also prompt legal challenges and further political action from lawmakers concerned about the implications for civil rights in education.

What to watch

In the coming weeks, lawmakers may introduce legislation to challenge the administration's reorganization of the Department of Education. Advocacy groups are likely to ramp up efforts to mobilize public opinion against these changes. Additionally, the impact of these shifts on students and schools may become clearer as new policies are implemented.