Kansas House Bill HCR5004

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23
• Engrossed: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/20/23
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Urging the U.S. Congress to fully fund the federal government's original funding promise under the individuals with disabilities education act.

Impact

By highlighting the federal government's failure to meet its funding obligations, HCR5004 underscores the financial strain placed on state and local school districts. This shortfall has not only led to budget cuts in educational programs but has also necessitated tax increases to cover the deficit in funding for special education services. As such, the resolution calls for legislative action at the federal level to ensure that states are no longer forced to shoulder the financial burden of the federal mandate, which could potentially reshape funding strategies for education within Kansas and beyond.

Summary

HCR5004 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the Kansas legislature that urges the U.S. Congress to fulfill its funding promise under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Since its enactment in 1975, IDEA aimed to ensure that all children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education. The federal government had pledged to cover 40% of the average per-student expenditures for special education services; however, this funding has never been fully realized. HCR5004 draws attention to this unfulfilled commitment and its consequences for state and local educational agencies.

Contention

There are notable implications surrounding HCR5004 concerning the accountability of federal funding in education. Advocates for individuals with disabilities support the resolution as it seeks to alleviate the financial pressures on educational institutions and reinforce the rights of children with disabilities. However, the resolution may encounter resistance as it demands changes at the federal level, requiring support that could be influenced by varying political priorities. The resolution was adopted with significant bipartisan support, showcasing a shared recognition of the need for reform in funding mechanisms related to special education.