American Nurses Association, 9 Other Groups Sue Dept. of Education Over Loan Limit Rule

June 2, 2026 - 01:51

The American Nurses Association, along with nine other organizations, has taken legal action against the U.S. Department of Education. The lawsuit challenges the agency's final rule regarding loan limits, which the groups argue unfairly restricts access to federal student loans for healthcare professionals and other workers.

The rule in question imposes new caps on borrowing for certain graduate and professional programs. The plaintiffs claim the regulation will disproportionately harm nurses, educators, and others who rely on federal loans to finance advanced degrees. Without adequate funding, they argue, many qualified individuals may be forced to abandon their careers or take on unsustainable private debt.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court, seeks to block the rule from taking effect. The groups contend the Department of Education overstepped its authority and failed to consider the real-world impact on students and the workforce. They also say the rule contradicts the government's stated goal of addressing shortages in critical fields like nursing.

The Department of Education has not yet issued a formal response to the complaint. Legal experts expect the case to move slowly, but the outcome could set a precedent for how loan limits are applied in the future. For now, the coalition of organizations is urging the court to act quickly to prevent what they call irreparable harm to students and the broader economy.