TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida relies on billions in Federal education funding, from special education to student loan programs. But with President Trump pushing to reduce the role of the Department of Education, questions are growing about where the responsibilities will go and how it could impact students and borrowers here in Florida.

“I want to just do it. I mean, we’re starting the process. We’re trying to get the schools back into the states. Let the states run the schools,” President Donald Trump said.

President Trump specifically called out the forgiveness process in the current student loan program.

‘I don’t think the education should be handling the loans. That’s not their business,” President Trump said.

The move could shift control of student loans and other programs to separate federal agencies. A Florida policy analyst warns that without clear guidance, it could create confusion for those who rely on the program.
“It could cause confusion amongst people who borrow those funds. It could cause a chilling effect that people won’t seek them. They think they’re no longer eligible,” Norin Dollard said.
Newly sworn in education secretary Linda Mcmahon said she supports the plan, believing states should have more control.

“He believes as do I, that the best education is closest to the student,” Mcmahon said.
But according to data from the Department of Education, Florida relies heavily on federal education funding, with more than 2 billion going to programs that help low-income students and special education.

Democrats in congress said eliminating the department could hurt Florida schools, which depend on that money.

“Nobody in America wants the destruction of public education, Senator Chris Murphy said.

Senator Bernie Sanders said changes are needed, but not a complete shutdown.

“Do we need to destroy it? Absolutely not,” Senator Sanders said.

A white house official said President Trump could sign an executive order as early as this week.