Less Bureaucracy, Better Higher Education Act

This bill, known as the "Less Bureaucracy, Better Higher Education Act," proposes a significant restructuring of federal oversight for numerous postsecondary education programs. It mandates the transfer of all functions related to these programs from the Department of Education to the Secretary of Labor , specifically through the Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Administration. This shift encompasses a wide array of initiatives, including those focused on strengthening institutions, supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and promoting minority science and engineering education. Key programs being transferred include the Federal TRIO Programs and Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) , which provide vital support for disadvantaged students. Also moving to the Department of Labor are programs for students with disabilities, veteran student success initiatives, and graduate assistance in areas of national need. The legislation aims to better integrate these educational efforts with workforce development strategies. In addition to these transfers, the bill repeals four specific programs: the Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Program, the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program, the College Access Challenge Grant Program, and the Project Grad program. It also directs the transfer of all associated personnel, assets, liabilities, and unexpended funds to the Department of Labor. The Office of Management and Budget is charged with overseeing this transition, including ensuring that there is no net increase in full-time equivalent employees across the federal agencies involved.