A Department of Education advisory panel approved a new earnings test intended to assess program outcomes for undergraduate certificates and related credentials, but the vote exposed continuing divisions among advisers. One committee member abstained, with concerns raised that forcing consensus might jeopardize protections for students in short-term certificate programs. The approval clears a procedural hurdle but leaves details and implementation timing unsettled. Members said the earnings test aims to protect students from low-return programs by tying eligibility to graduates’ labor-market gains; supporters argued it strengthens consumer protections, while opponents cautioned about unintended effects on access to career pathways. Education Department staff signaled further rulemaking and closed-door discussions as officials seek a workable, legally defensible standard.