Community college leaders requested that the Carnegie Classification withdraw its new Student Access and Earnings Classification after concerns that the methodology misrepresents two‑year institutions. Advocates argue the classification risks penalizing community colleges by conflating mission‑driven access with earnings metrics and could influence policy and funding decisions that affect open‑access institutions. Carnegie has stood by the approach, prompting sector groups to press for revisions or delay so that community colleges can provide feedback. Stakeholders warn the change could affect public perception, accountability frameworks and resource allocation if left unadjusted. Why it matters: Classification systems shape public and policy narratives; an approach viewed as unfair to community colleges could influence accreditation, funding priorities and the broader narrative around access, equity and workforce alignment.