Measures Extend Higher Education Act, HEROES Act

The U.S. House has voted to extend provisions of the Higher Education Act for three months to give lawmakers time to complete work on reauthorization. The authority for programs covered by the law, including key federal student-aid programs, would be extended until Dec. 31.

House and Senate committees have approved separate versions of reauthorization legislation.

The House also approved a measure extending for two years provisions that permit the U.S. secretary of education to excuse military personnel from their federal student-loan obligations while they serve on active duty. The bill would extend until Sept. 30, 2007, the so-called HEROES Act. The HEROES Act also grants the education secretary authority to waive or modify federal student-aid requirements to ensure that those affected by war, military operations or national emergencies are not disadvantaged regarding their financial aid because of their status.