To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Education, Innovation and Improvement for fiscal year 2024.
Impact
If enacted, the implications of HB 2023 would be substantial, leading to a cessation of federal funds for educational innovations and improvements. Local education agencies, which often rely on federal support to implement new teaching methods, technologies, and programs, would face significant challenges in maintaining or developing educational resources. The cessation of funds could directly affect the quality of education in various districts, particularly those that are already underfunded at the state and local levels.
Summary
House Bill 2023 proposes a significant limitation on the availability of funds for the Department of Education's Innovation and Improvement programs for the fiscal year 2024. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the authorized appropriations for these programs shall not exceed zero dollars, effectively eliminating any federal funding allocated to this department during the specified fiscal year. This proposal reflects a growing trend among certain lawmakers to reevaluate and restrict federal educational spending, particularly in areas deemed non-essential or mismanaged by federal oversight.
Contention
The limitations proposed in HB 2023 have sparked considerable contention among legislators and educational advocates. Supporters of the bill argue that it reflects a necessary shift towards fiscal responsibility, reducing federal involvement in local education and allowing states greater autonomy in managing their educational funding. However, opponents raise concerns that such cuts could undermine educational progress, particularly in underserved communities that rely heavily on federal funds for basic educational services. Critics indicate that eliminating funding for innovation and improvement programs will have long-term detrimental effects on the educational outcomes for students nationwide.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Range Improvements for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Education, Departmental Management, Office of Civil Rights for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health Innovation Account, CURES Act for fiscal year 2024.