If passed, the bill would enable local educational agencies to receive grants aimed at improving infrastructure to create safer educational environments. Funding would be distributed based on the condition of existing facilities, prioritizing those in the worst state of disrepair. These grants can cover full costs for agencies lacking the capacity to issue bonds or requiring a local match based on specific criteria, ultimately addressing the substantial infrastructure needs identified in numerous studies and by educational agencies across the country.
Summary
SB2808, known as the 'Impact Aid Infrastructure Partnership Act', aims to establish a collaborative federal-local partnership to enhance the facilities of locally controlled educational agencies impacted by federal land. The bill authorizes appropriations of $250 million annually from 2024 to 2027 to support these initiatives, particularly targeting schools that do not meet health and safety standards. The facilities of these local educational agencies are often outdated, with many being over 65 years old and rated poorly for structural soundness.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits, the bill has raised concerns regarding the equitable distribution of funds and the adequacy of support for agencies that may still have some local funding capacity. Additionally, there are apprehensions surrounding accountability for the usage of these funds and the effectiveness of the program in truly alleviating the infrastructure issues faced by the schools it aims to assist. Stakeholders are particularly anxious about ensuring that the funds are used to supplement, rather than supplant, essential local funding necessary for continued facility improvements.
Promoting Responsible Oversight To Eliminate Communist Teachings for Our Kids Act or the PROTECT Our Kids ActThis bill prohibits federal education funding for any elementary or secondary school that directly or indirectly receives support from the Chinese government.Specifically, the bill prohibits such funding for any school that (1) has a partnership in effect with a cultural or language institute funded by the Chinese government, including a Confucius Institute; (2) operates a learning center supported by the Chinese government (commonly referred to as a Confucius Classroom); or (3) receives support from an individual or entity acting on behalf of the Chinese government, including support in the form of teaching materials, personnel, funds, or other resources. However, the Department of Education (ED) may issue a waiver of the prohibition if a school has an existing contract with one of these entities and the school demonstrates that the contract is for the benefit of the school and promotes the security, stability, and economy of the United States.The bill directs ED to provide notice of the bill's requirements to schools, as well as guidance for achieving compliance with the requirements.