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ED Investigates Tufts for Potential Student Data Violations

2/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Education (ED) has initiated an investigation into Tufts University's National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE) program for potential violations of student privacy laws.
The inquiry examines the sharing of student data with third-party political organizations to influence elections.
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon criticized the Biden administration for promoting reckless data sharing.
ED is reminding colleges of their obligations under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to protect students' private information.

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Story summary

The Department of Education (ED) has initiated an investigation into Tufts University's National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE) program for potential violations of student privacy laws.
The inquiry examines the sharing of student data with third-party political organizations to influence elections.
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon criticized the Biden administration for promoting reckless data sharing.
ED is reminding colleges of their obligations under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to protect students' private information.