U.S. Reps Huffman, Craig, and Stauber Fight for Funding for Special Education in Coronavirus Response Bill

March 23, 2020

San Rafael, CA – Today, U.S. Reps. Jared Huffman (CA-02), Angie Craig (MN-02), and Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent a letter to House leadership urging the inclusion of additional funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). As school districts adapt to closures due to the Coronavirus, the Members advocated for additional funds to continue special education services as the House considers additional funding in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. 

Across the country, schools are closing and distance learning is being implemented. The members were joined by more than 25 colleagues to ensure every student, including those who receive special education, continue to get high quality education. To do this, schools need additional IDEA funding to support all their students.

“This continued shortfall is exacerbated during this time of state-wide school shutdowns and an increase in distance learning. Significant funding in this next aid package for IDEA would help relieve budget pressures and provide much needed support for our teachers and school administrators who are working tirelessly to continue to educate all students in our communities through equal access to quality education,” the Representatives wrote in the letter to House leadership.

You can see the full letter here.

In addition to Reps. Craig, Stauber and Huffman, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives: Brian Fitzpatrick, Nydia M. Vela?zquez, Peter A. DeFazio, Rashida Tlaib, Alan Lowenthal, Mike Thompson, James P. McGovern, Ilhan Omar, Eliot L. Engel, Gwen Moore, Doris Matsui, John B. Larson, Joe Neguse, Sean Casten, Joseph P . Kennedy III, Ted Deutch, Suzanne Bonamici Sean Patrick Maloney, Jan Schakowsky, Terri A. Sewell, Haley Stevens, Dean Phillips, Chellie Pingree, J. Luis Correa, Darren Soto, and Anna G. Eshoo.

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