GOP Rep Goes To Bat For Trade Schools In Lame-Duck Congress

Republican Representative Mark Harris is backing the PARITY Act, which would repeal the federal 90/10 rule for proprietary career and trade schools. He argues the rule holds these schools to a different standard from traditional colleges and limits access to vocational training, including for veterans.

The rule requires proprietary schools to receive at least 10% of their revenue from non-federal sources. Harris and Education Department official Jeff Andrade say this can push schools towards higher tuition and private loans, while GI Bill assistance no longer counts towards the requirement. Supporters say newer student-outcome rules apply across higher education; Andrade estimates changing the 90/10 rule could add about $1.5 billion in federal costs over ten years, and expects opposition over that expense.