In the end of September, states were notified that their IDEA allocations were less than had been previously thought. This was a surprise to states around the nation. What we now know is that in the last funding bill passed by Congress (a continuing resolution (CR) or short term measure meant to fund programs just for a short time – here until November 18), contained a 1.5 percent across-the board cut for all programs.
Since most education programs are forward funded, meaning states and school districts don’t receive FY 12 funds until July 2012, this 1.5% cut appeared at first to have little impact on education programs. However, for - IDEA, Title I, Title II, and Career and Tech Programs - this is not case. As a result, states received $329 million LESS for these programs on October 1, 2011, that is $329 million less for 2011-12 school-year funds.
Schools everywhere are already under budget pressure, so this cut could not have happened at a worse time. Moreover, CEC believes that Congress did not intend to cut these programs. Indeed, it doesn’t make any sense given their other actions. First, during congressional consideration of the FY 12 CR, there was no indication that the 1.5 percent cut would result in a year-long cut in this school year for any of these 4 programs. Next, the House Subcommittee that handles education appropriations proposed an increase in IDEA for FY 2012, (which we recently thanked them for! Read our letter!). Finally, although the Senate did not increase funds for IDEA (except $5 million for Part C) – it basically level funded IDEA. Thus, Congress must restore these funds and solve this problem.
The 1.5% cut to IDEA is a problem that must be fixed. Help us! Tell Congress it must restore the funding that was cut and ensure that going forward. Make your voice heard!
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