The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposed changes to federal grant regulations that would affect how schools and districts use federal education funds. If finalized, the rule could limit the use of grant funds for conference attendance, professional development, association memberships, and subscriptions unless specifically approved by the federal agency and included in the grant terms.
MSA is concerned that some of the proposed changes could reduce flexibility for districts and schools to access high-quality professional learning opportunities and engage with the broader magnet school community. Additional provisions of the rule address issue advocacy, DEI-related activities, and grant review processes.
For more information, see the frequently asked questions below.
The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has proposed changes to the federal regulations that govern how federal grant funds are administered (2 C.F.R. Part 200, also known as the Uniform Guidance). These rules apply to federal education grants, including the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP). The proposal is currently open for public comment through July 13, 2026, and has not been finalized.
Several proposed changes could make it more difficult for school districts and educators to use federal grant funds for professional development, conference attendance, and membership in professional associations. MSA believes these activities are essential to implementing high-quality magnet programs, supporting educators, and improving student outcomes.
Magnet schools rely on specialized programming and instructional practices, as well as collaboration among educators. Professional learning opportunities—including conferences, technical assistance, and peer networking—help educators strengthen magnet themes, share best practices, and improve teaching and learning. The proposed rule could limit access to these opportunities by requiring additional federal approvals before grant funds can be used.
Potentially. The proposed rule would apply broadly to federal financial assistance across multiple agencies, including grants administered by the U.S. Department of Education. If finalized, MSAP grantees and recipients of other federal education funds could face new restrictions on using grant funds for conferences, professional development, association memberships, and certain subscriptions.
No. This is a proposed rule. OMB is accepting public comments through July 13, 2026. After that, OMB will consider the comments it received before deciding whether to issue a final rule.
MSA is closely monitoring the proposal and has submitted comments to OMB expressing concerns about the potential impact on magnet schools. Our comments urge OMB to preserve the flexibility districts need to invest in professional learning, collaboration, and technical assistance while maintaining strong accountability for federal funds.
Yes. School leaders, educators, district administrators, and other stakeholders are encouraged to share how the proposed rule could affect their work. Personal examples of how conferences, professional development, and association memberships have strengthened magnet programs and improved student outcomes can help federal officials better understand the proposal’s real-world impact.
If you would like to submit comments on behalf of your school or district, the public comment period remains open through July 13, 2026. There is no required format for submitting comments. Your response can be a sentence, paragraph, or more detailed statement. For more guidance on submitting comments, see this comprehensive Comment Guide provided by the National Council of Nonprofits.
MSA will continue to keep members informed as the rulemaking process moves forward and will share additional updates and advocacy opportunities as they become available.
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