Omaha City Wire

U.S. Representatives Don Bacon and Jared Huffman, along with U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, have reintroduced the IDEA Full Funding Act. This legislation aims to fulfill the commitment to provide free, high-quality public education for children with disabilities. The act is a response to the unmet federal obligation to cover 40% of special education costs as promised under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) passed in 1975. Currently, funding is below 13%.

"The IDEA Full Funding Act would require regular, mandatory increases in IDEA spending to finally meet our obligation to America's children and schools," says the press release.

Rep. Don Bacon expressed his support for the act by stating, “This bipartisan legislation is fulfilling a long overdue promise made by the federal government to support students with disabilities by funding 40% of the cost of special education."

Rep. Jared Huffman added, “While we’ve made substantial progress to fund special education services in recent years, we still have important work left to do to live up to the original commitment Congress made.”

Senator Van Hollen highlighted the historical context: “Fifty years ago, Congress passed the IDEA Act, and with it, made a promise to children with disabilities and their families – but we have fallen short of that promise every year since."

The act has received broad support, including from more than 30 senators and over 60 House members. It is also endorsed by several national and local organizations, such as the School Superintendents Association and the Council for Exceptional Children.

House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse criticized the Trump Administration while supporting the legislation: “As the Trump Administration slashes support for students with disabilities by dismantling the Department of Education, I am proud to join my colleagues in advancing legislation that mandates increased IDEA funding."

Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson stated, “For too long, the federal government has fallen short on its commitment to share the cost of education with states for individuals with special needs, placing an unfair burden on schools, teachers, and families."

Rep. Angie Craig shared her personal connection to the issue: “As the mother of a child who benefited from special education, I know firsthand just how life-changing these programs can be for Minnesota students and their families.”

The bill has found support in both houses of Congress and among a diverse group of organizations. These groups stress the necessity of adequately funding special education to relieve the financial burden on local schools and ensure equal educational opportunities for all children.