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Senate Compromise on Economic Stimulus Cuts Education Programs But Keeps IDEA Funding Intact

Late Friday evening, a small, bipartisan group of senators unveiled changes to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) -- better known as the economic stimulus package -- in an effort to attract enough support for the bill to ensure its passage. 

While the Senate’s original version of ARRA included $140 billion for the U.S. Department of Education, the proposed changes led by Senators Nelson (Neb.) and Collins (Maine) cut the investment in education by $60 billion to $80 billion. However, CEC is pleased that funding for special education (IDEA Part B, Section 619, and Part C) remained intact at $13.5 billion. This amount more than doubles the current federal allocation for IDEA over two years, in recognition of the commitment Congress made over 30 years ago to students with disabilities, but has yet to fulfill. 

CEC thanks all of its members who, for years, have been advocating for full funding of IDEA. Over the years -- and specifically over the last few weeks -- CEC members have effectively conveyed to policymakers the necessity of increasing the federal investment in all IDEA programs, culminating in this ongoing effort to double IDEA funding over two years.

CEC has prepared a chart comparing the funding recommendations for selected programs as passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, as included in the original ARRA proposed by Senate leaders, and as impacted by the Nelson-Collins amendment. Please note: Because information is still forthcoming, CEC will update this chart as necessary.  

Today, Feb. 9, the Senate is poised to hold a procedural vote that would limit further debate on the Nelson-Collins amendment. A vote on the amendment by the full Senate is expected on Tuesday. Next, the House and Senate will work out the differences between their two bills -- of which there are many. House and Senate leaders have publicly stated their desire to provide a bill for President Obama to sign into law by President’s Day, Feb. 16.

CEC will continue to provide regular updates on the status of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, including calls to action for CEC members, which may occur as early as Tuesday. For the latest information, sign up for CEC’s Policy Insider or visit CEC’s Web site at www.cec.sped.org.