Enough is Enough: Yet Another Stripping of our Rights. Protect Students with Disabilities from Devastating Cuts
- tara1842
- Mar 12
- 2 min read
What is the IDEA and How does it Protect Students with Disabilities
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was passed in 1975 to ensure that students with disabilities receive the education they deserve. It’s a promise—one that guarantees special education services, individualized supports, and protections for millions of students nationwide. But today, that promise is in imminent danger. Last evening they are working towards stripping more of our rights!
On March 11, 2025, the Department of Education announced mass layoffs and budget reductions that will cripple the enforcement and funding of IDEA (U.S. Department of Education). Nearly 40% of IDEA funding comes from the federal government (National Center for Education Statistics). If that funding is cut or mismanaged due to reduced oversight, the impact will be catastrophic:
Fewer special education teachers and therapists
Delays in IEP evaluations and disability accommodations
Elimination of support programs for students with complex needs
Increased financial burden on already strained local school districts
The disability community is in crisis, and Congress must act—NOW.
Call Your Representatives and Demand they Protect Students with Disabilities
This is not politics. This is about fundamental rights. The Department of Education is responsible for ensuring states comply with IDEA. If federal enforcement weakens, the law becomes meaningless. States will be left scrambling, families will be forced to fight harder for services, and students will be the ones who suffer most.
We need YOU to call your Senators and Representatives TODAY and demand they:
Fully fund IDEA and prevent federal cuts that disproportionately harm students with disabilities.
Hold the Department of Education accountable for ensuring special education rights are enforced.
Protect federal oversight of disability education laws, ensuring states uphold their obligations.
📞 Call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to your representative.
Not sure what to say? Try this:
“I am a constituent, and I am deeply concerned about the recent cuts at the Department of Education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is critical for ensuring students with disabilities receive the support they need. Federal funding accounts for 40% of IDEA funding, and if those funds are reduced, millions of students will lose essential services. I urge you to fight these cuts, fully fund IDEA, and ensure oversight remains strong. Our children’s futures depend on it.”
Make the call. Send the email. Show up.
Because when one right is threatened, all rights are threatened.
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