Keep Our PACT Act Keep Our Promise to America’s Children and Teachers Act
Impact
If enacted, HB 869 is expected to significantly increase federal funding for various education programs, including those for low-income and disabled students. The proposed funding levels set forth in the bill would require appropriated amounts to be adjusted annually, based on national average per-pupil expenditures. This change would provide critical resources to school districts that struggle to meet the educational needs of their communities, thereby addressing existing inequities in educational access and quality.
Summary
House Bill 869, titled the 'Keep Our Promise to America’s Children and Teachers Act,' aims to mandate full funding for Part A of Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The bill emphasizes the importance of providing equal educational opportunities for all students and acknowledges the federal government's commitment to adequately funding programs that serve children with disabilities. By establishing mandatory funding levels over several years, the bill seeks to ensure that educational resources align with the growing needs of students across the nation.
Contention
Throughout discussions surrounding HB 869, there are points of contention primarily related to funding allocations and the fiscal impact on federal budgets. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for maintaining the federal government's promise to support both Title I and special education funding, fostering a higher quality of education nationwide. Critics express concerns about the sustainability of such funding commitments, fearing that it may constrain future budget flexibility and lead to potential funding cuts in other areas of education or social services. These debates underscore the ongoing tension between ensuring educational equity and managing federal budgetary constraints.