- A coalition sued the U.S. Department of Education over restrictive federal rules, concurrent with the Trump administration making changes to student loan plans.
- A federal judge blocked a final rule limiting eligibility while an advocacy group and Democracy Forward filed a lawsuit against the Education Department.
Judge Brindisi Invalidates Biden Rule Restricting Indigenous Student Financial Aid
What happened
Judge Anthony Brindisi invalidated a rule implemented by the Biden Administration that restricted financial aid access for certain students. The rule required indigenous students, such as Akwesasne Mohawk students, who were born in Canada but studying in the United States, to possess a Green Card to use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The judge based the ruling on an 18th-century treaty.
Why it matters
The ruling restores the ability for indigenous students to apply for federal financial aid programs. The rule, which was put in place before January 2025, had created difficulties for these students within their community.
A coalition had previously filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education over restrictive federal rules.
Who's involved
- Anthony BrindisiJudge who struck down the restrictive financial aid rule.
- Joe BidenAdministration whose rule was invalidated by the court.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Joe Biden
46th President of the United States (2021–2025)
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