Government

Requirements were aimed mostly at for-profit companies colleges hire to run their online programs. Nonprofits that help students attend and complete college feel caught in the crossfire.

At 24 institutions, students have accumulated more than $25 million in interest five years into repayment, while at one university, balances grew by $289 million.

Alderson Broaddus University faced a vote from a state oversight board that could have prompted its closure. Then the governor stepped in, though without a clear plan.

Republicans argue that college prices are too high for inadequate outcomes and that institutions are to blame. Democrats focus their ire on for-profit colleges.

The Senate wants to give the Education Department more money; House Republicans would cut billions. Dueling budgets show the yawning gaps between the chambers.