The U.S. Department of Education (ED) is at risk of elimination due to H.R. 899, a bill introduced in Congress, and an Executive Order. If the ED is eliminated, state and local school districts would lose billions in federal funding. These funds are essential for ensuring students—especially those with disabilities—receive the education and resources they need to thrive. Schools would face significant budget cuts, making it harder to provide necessary resources, hire qualified educators, maintain essential programs, and provide critical student services.
The elimination of the Department of Education would be catastrophic for the 15% of students who receive special education services. Without the department’s oversight and funding, students with disabilities would lose critical services, civil rights protections, and access to a quality education.
The Devastating Impact of Eliminating the Department of Education
The ED plays a vital role in ensuring equity in education. If eliminated, the consequences could include:
- Loss of Special Education Protections: Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), which outline the specific educational services and supports a child needs to succeed in the general curriculum, could be eliminated, and rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act rolled back, threatening students’ access to Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
- Cuts to Public School Funding: Billions of dollars in federal funding for essential education programs would disappear, forcing states to cover the shortfall. Many states and localities may face challenges in doing so, potentially resulting in increased state taxes or education funding cuts.
- Greater Inequities in Education: The ED ensures that students with disabilities, students from low-income families, and other marginalized groups receive a fair and appropriate education. Without it, the most vulnerable students would be left behind.
- Greater Barriers to Employment: Without an appropriate education, students with disabilities will be less likely to have access to higher education or find high-paying jobs, leading to an increased risk of living in poverty.
Learn more in our Policy Brief.
How Can You Help?
Your voice is crucial in protecting the Department of Education and ensuring continued federal support for students with disabilities. Please contact your two Senators and your Member of the House of Representatives and urge them to oppose H.R. 899 and any legislation aimed at eliminating the Department of Education. Every call and email makes a difference!
You can call the U.S. Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121 to be connected to your two Senators and Member of the House of Representatives, or you can use the links below to find their contact information.
- Find the name and contact information for your Member of Congress
- Find the name and contact information for your two U.S. Senators
You can use our templates below as a guide when contacting your elected officials. You can also consider sharing a personal story about how special education programs have impacted you or your community.
Sample Scripts and Email Templates
For your Member of Congress:
For your Senators:
