OTC AskRegs Experts: Shutdown Interruptions and an Update on FWS Guidance
This week on "Off the Cuff," Hugh is joined by David to discuss how the lapse in appropriations for fiscal year (FY) 2026 is impacting Department of Education (ED) services and programs. David shares some *guidance from the department, which outlined how over 80% of ED and Federal Student Aid (FSA) staff are being furloughed during the shutdown. Hugh provides some insight into how ED’s negotiated rulemaking session has managed to continue meeting in-person this week and discusses how long it could take for the government to reopen. David then reminds listeners of some summer guidance regarding the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program and activities it cannot support.
Speakers
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| Hugh Ferguson Managing Editor |
David Tolman Instructional Design & Content Specialist |
This episode of Off The Cuff is brought to you by the NASFAA 2026 National Conference
We want your great ideas for engaging, relevant, and interesting conference sessions for our National Conference happening in National Harbor next summer. All types of session proposals are welcome, from those focused on advocacy, training, and professional development, to sessions structured as open-forum discussions. All proposals must be received by October 17, 2025. Visit our Presenters and Moderators page to submit a proposal.
Resources
- Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
- Episode Transcript (PDF)
- ED Details Contingency Planning In Case of a Government Shutdown
- FSA Details Shutdown's ‘Minimal’ Impact on Operations
- (GENERAL-25-42) Government Lapse in Appropriations – Federal Student Aid Processing and Customer Service Guidance
- ED Rescinds FWS Guidance Concerning Voting Registration Efforts
- Dear Colleague Letter GEN-25-05 Updated Requirements for Distribution of Voter
- *NASFAA has sought and received clarification on the offering of FWS and FSEOG during the appropriations lapse. Schools may continue making offers of FWS and FSEOG for 2025-26 (except for any schools that have not yet received a 2025-26 allocation)
Send your thoughts, questions, and comments. We'd love to hear what you think.
Publication Date: 10/3/2025