This bill aims to safeguard the administrative structure for special education programs within the Department of Education. It explicitly prohibits the use of appropriated funds to eliminate, consolidate, or otherwise restructure any office responsible for administering or enforcing programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This measure reinforces Congress's intent that the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) remain housed within the Department of Education, as mandated by statute. Furthermore, the legislation prevents the termination, reassignment, or alteration of responsibilities for any personnel working within these IDEA-related offices. It also prohibits the Department of Education from contracting with or delegating the administration or enforcement of IDEA programs to any entity outside the Department, thereby ensuring the stability and integrity of federal oversight for special education services.
This bill aims to safeguard the administrative structure for special education programs within the Department of Education. It explicitly prohibits the use of appropriated funds to eliminate, consolidate, or otherwise restructure any office responsible for administering or enforcing programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This measure reinforces Congress's intent that the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) remain housed within the Department of Education, as mandated by statute. Furthermore, the legislation prevents the termination, reassignment, or alteration of responsibilities for any personnel working within these IDEA-related offices. It also prohibits the Department of Education from contracting with or delegating the administration or enforcement of IDEA programs to any entity outside the Department, thereby ensuring the stability and integrity of federal oversight for special education services.