Biden v. Nebraska (2023)

1) Link to the Actual Opinion
Read the Supreme Court opinion (PDF)

2) Summary of the Opinion
The Biden administration announced a plan to forgive up to $20,000 in federal student loan debt per borrower, citing authority under the HEROES Act of 2003. Six states challenged the program. The Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, struck it down, holding that the administration lacked clear congressional authorization for such a sweeping policy under the major questions doctrine.

3) Why It Mattered
This case placed strict limits on executive authority to implement broad economic programs without explicit approval from Congress. It reinforced the Court’s growing use of the major questions doctrine.

4) What It Provided or Took Away

• Took Away: The administration’s student loan forgiveness plan affecting millions of borrowers.
• Provided: A stronger check on executive agencies, requiring explicit legislative approval for large-scale policies.

5) Overreach or Proper Role?
Supporters saw it as a necessary defense of separation of powers and Congress’s lawmaking authority. Critics viewed it as the Court blocking needed economic relief for political reasons.

6) Plain-English Impact Today
The President cannot unilaterally cancel large amounts of student debt. Major programs with big economic or political consequences require Congress’s direct authorization.

• Separation of Powers
• Administrative Law
• Student Loans
• Major Questions Doctrine