US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB838

Introduced
1/31/25  

Caption

Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act or the A PLUS Act This bill creates a framework under which states may receive federal elementary and secondary education funds on a consolidated basis and use such funds for any educational purpose permitted by state law.

Impact

This legislation is significant as it seeks to reduce administrative burdens associated with the compliance of Federal education programs. States will be able to use Federal funds with greater discretion, leveraging them towards educational reforms that align with their local policies and priorities. However, the bill explicitly excludes funding from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which limits its scope concerning special education funding. The push for accountability remains strong, as states must regularly report on student progress and how Federal funds are utilized to improve educational outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 838, known as the Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act (A PLUS Act), aims to provide States with increased flexibility in managing Federal education funds. The bill allows a State to submit a declaration of intent to the Secretary of Education, granting the authority to consolidate certain Federal funding streams. This initiative is designed to enhance academic achievement among students, particularly those facing disadvantages, by allowing states and local communities to dictate the use of funds to meet specific educational needs.

Contention

Key points of contention stemmed from the balance between state autonomy and federal oversight. Supporters argue that this bill empowers states to better cater to their unique educational landscapes and effectively address educational disparities. Critics, however, express concerns about potential inequities arising from this approach, fearing that it could undermine necessary federal standards and support for disadvantaged student populations. The requirement for states to keep parents and the public informed adds a layer of accountability, yet raises debates on whether this truly ensures all students receive equitable educational opportunities.

Congress_id

119-HR-838

Policy_area

Education

Introduced_date

2025-01-31

Companion Bills

US SB309

Related bill Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act or the A PLUS Act This bill creates a framework under which states may receive federal elementary and secondary education funds on a consolidated basis and use such funds for any educational purpose permitted by state law.

Previously Filed As

US SB309

Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act or the A PLUS Act This bill creates a framework under which states may receive federal elementary and secondary education funds on a consolidated basis and use such funds for any educational purpose permitted by state law.

US HB65

Ending Common Core and Expanding School Choice Act This bill revises requirements related to federal education funding for disadvantaged children. Specifically, the bill (1) eliminates the standards, assessments, and academic accountability requirements for state and local educational agencies that receive federal funds for the education of disadvantaged children; (2) requires such funds to be allocated based on the number of children residing in each state who are living in poverty; and (3) allows educational agencies to distribute per-pupil amounts from such funds to parents for qualified elementary and secondary education expenses. The bill prohibits federal officers or employees from mandating academic standards, assessments, curricula, or accountability systems.

US SB2921

A bill to amend section 7014 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to advance toward full Federal funding for impact aid, and for other purposes.

US HB2691

To abolish the Department of Education and to provide funding directly to States for elementary and secondary education, and for other purposes.

US SB266

Creates and modifies provisions relating to responsibilities of publicly funded elementary and secondary educational entities

US SB1351

Creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education and establishes the "Student Screen-Time Standards Act", "Framework on Classroom Use of Screens Council", "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act", and "Missouri Integrated Safe Driving Program"

US HB1359

Black History Matters Act This bill directs the National Museum of African American History and Culture to study and report on Black history education in public elementary and secondary schools. Among other elements, the study must (1) identify the states and local educational agencies that require (and those that do not require) Black history education as part of the curriculum taught in public elementary and secondary schools, (2) assess the quality of Black history education provided by schools, and (3) assess the types and quality of instructional material used to teach students about Black history.

US HB5547

To amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide for additional activities, resources, and data collection with respect to English learners, and for other purposes.

US HB66

Native American Education Opportunity Act This bill addresses education savings account programs and charter schools for tribal students. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Education and the Department of the Interior, at the request of federally recognized Indian tribes, to provide funds to tribes for tribal-based education savings account programs. Tribes must use these funds to award grants to education savings accounts for students who (1) attended or will be eligible to attend a school operated by the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE); or (2) will not be attending a school operated by the BIE, receiving an education savings account from another tribe, or attending public elementary or secondary school while participating in the program. Funds may be used for items and activities such as costs of attendance at private schools, private tutoring and online learning programs, textbooks, educational software, or examination fees. The Government Accountability Office must review the implementation of these education savings account programs, including any factors impacting increased participation in such programs. Additionally, the bill authorizes the BIE to approve and fund charter schools at any school that it operates or funds.

US HB2584

Creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.