The U.S. Department of Education is moving key civil rights enforcement and special education responsibilities to other federal agencies as part of the Trump administration’s broader restructuring of the department. Officials said the Office for Civil Rights will use the DOJ Civil Rights Division to evaluate, investigate, and resolve complaints, while Education retains management functions and continues to coordinate on cases and policy guidance. In parallel agreements, parts of special education duties involving OSERS are shifting to the Department of Health and Human Services, which will handle additional administration tasks tied to Individuals with Disabilities Education Act implementation and related grant administration. Advocates and civil rights groups have responded with concerns about protections and staffing, while officials argue the partnership will not impact students or families seeking relief. Higher education institutions—especially those with complex disability compliance and civil rights workflows—will need to monitor how enforcement timelines, case handling, and reporting duties change.