The U.S. Department of Education has released updated regulations concerning distance learning at post-secondary schools such as colleges and universities.

The updated regulations are now available for public comment.

Secretary Betsy DeVos announced the release of these updated regulations on Twitter, stating that the current COVID-19 health crisis underscores the importance of the work the U.S. Department of Education started last year in rethinking distance learning to better serve students.

The purpose of the updated regulations is to “reduce barriers to innovation in the way institutions deliver educational material and opportunities to students, and assess their knowledge and understanding, while providing reasonable safeguards to limit the risks to students and taxpayers.” The regulations seek to provide flexibility to allow for distance learning in what has been considered a traditional setting thus far, and clarity as to outdated modes of technology.

If you are interested in reviewing the comments or providing additional input regarding the proposed regulations, you can access the electronic docket here.

All comments must be submitted by May 4.

If you have any questions on these proposed regulations, please contact any member of the Barley Snyder Education Practice Group.