Federal Government Shutdown Ends

Last night, President Trump signed a budget bill from Congress to reopen the federal government. The 43-day shutdown was the longest in U.S. history. Some disruptions, such as air traffic control, are expected to gradually return to full operations as federal employees await backpay. 

The approved budget reinstates spending for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through fall of next year. Healthcare subsidies set to expire in January were not included in the final bill. 

Department of Education Issues New Rule for PSLF

On Oct. 31, the Department of Education issued a new rule stating that employees of organizations that “have a substantial illegal purpose” will no longer be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). The rule outlines illegal activities as those that serve undocumented immigrants, support terrorism, provide gender-affirming services to minors, or are involved in human trafficking. 

The rule will go into effect on July 1, 2026. 

Lawsuits have already emerged from the National Council of Nonprofits, U.S. cities, and nearly half of all U.S. states. ASDA will continue to monitor any legal action taken before the rule goes into effect.

More on Student Loans

• The Department of Education announced plans to expand the mission of the Office of Ombudsman to launch educational initiatives for students and families about federal student loans. This office is a neutral and confidential resource that helps resolve complaints within the Department.  Read more. 

• Student loan forgiveness has resumed for qualifying borrowers enrolled in income-driven repayment plans. Read more.  

• The first rulemaking session for the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee concluded last week. This committee was created to implement changes to student loans outlined in the One Big Beautiful Bill.  Read more. 

FDA Issues New Fluoride Restrictions

On Oct. 31, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued new restrictions on fluoride supplements. Following a public hearing this summer, the FDA will restrict the sale of unapproved ingestible fluoride for children under the age of three and kids at low or moderate risk of caries.  

ASDA supports fluoride as a safe evidence-based local and systemic therapy to prevent dental caries through community water fluoridation, topical fluoride, and other fluoride products. This announcement followed the public hearing held on this matter over the summer.

More Fluoride Updates


• The City of Santa Fe, NM, will no longer require fluoride to be added to its drinking water after a new ordinance. Read more. 
  

• The ADA and a number of other organizations urged Congress to adopt a provision in the Senate’s appropriations bill that would maintain spending levels for the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health. Read more. 

• On November 5, the ADA and Health Professions and Nursing Education Coalition sent a letter to congressional members on appropriations committees to advocate for increased funding for Title VII and VIII programs that support healthcare education and training. Read more.