Joint Statement on Executive Order to Dismantle the Department of Education
The Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANMC) and American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) are aware of the recent executive order issued by President Trump to close the Department of Education and are closely monitoring the situation.
Executive Orders are not laws, and only Congress has the authority to move the Department’s authorities to other agencies, or to close the Department entirely. Attempts to make significant changes without Congressional approval are also likely to encounter multiple legal challenges. However, we recognize that the recent workforce cuts, in conjunction with potential changes to the Department of Education stemming from this executive order, could have a significant and far-reaching impact on higher education, accreditation, student funding, and professional standards.
Together, we are actively working with coalitions of industry partners and leaders across higher education to assess the implications of this action and to advocate for policies that protect the integrity of educational programs and professional accreditation standards.
Our associations will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and as we engage with stakeholders to respond strategically to these developments.
