[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 62 (Monday, April 7, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H1423]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           SUPPORTING OUR NATION'S CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

  (Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania was recognized to address the House for 
5 minutes.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of 
crucial, bipartisan legislation that will support our Nation's most 
vulnerable. The IDEA Full Funding Act is a bipartisan, commonsense 
commitment to our Nation's children who are living with disabilities.
  This is not just about dollars and cents. It is about fulfilling a 
promise made 50 years ago to ensure that every child, regardless of 
ability, has access to a quality education that prepares them for a 
full and productive life.
  When Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 
in 1975, it was a landmark step toward educational equity. The Federal 
Government pledged to cover 40 percent of the excess costs of special 
education services.
  Yet, for decades we have fallen short of promised funding levels, 
which have hovered around 13 to 15 percent, leaving States and local 
school districts struggling to make up the difference.
  This shortfall forces schools to stretch their already limited 
resources, meaning fewer special education teachers, outdated 
instructional materials, and less support for students who need it 
most.
  The burden does not just fall on the schools. It affects families, 
educators, and, ultimately, the success of our communities. At the 
Education and Workforce Committee last week, we just heard about the 
exciting new opportunities artificial intelligence presents to advance 
education for students with special needs. However, many of those 
opportunities will not be realized if Congress does not live up to its 
commitment.
  The IDEA Full Funding Act ensures that we meet that commitment, 
gradually increasing Federal support until we reach the promised 40 
percent. It is not just good policy to invest in our Nation's future 
and ensure students with disabilities have access to a high-quality 
education. It is the right thing to do.
  Full funding will provide critical resources to schools, enabling 
students with disabilities to receive services and support that they 
need. It will reduce financial strain on States and local districts, 
preventing them from having to cut other essential programs. This 
legislation supports teachers and staff, ensuring that they have the 
tools and the training to deliver high-quality special education.

  Lastly, and most importantly, it gives families peace of mind, 
knowing their children will receive the education they deserve without 
unnecessary hurdles.
  Investing in special education is an investment in future taxpayers, 
workers, and independent citizens who contribute to society. By fully 
funding IDEA, we alleviate the pressure on States and local governments 
thereby strengthening our education system.
  Mr. Speaker, we have an obligation to every student in this country. 
When we fail to meet our commitment under IDEA, we fail millions of 
children who deserve a fair shot at success. Passing the IDEA Full 
Funding Act is a step toward fairness, responsibility, and a brighter 
future for all.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this essential 
legislation.

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