Government Relations Update March 22, 2025

AMTA Government Relations Update: March 22, 2025

Department of Education Executive order

DESCRIPTION OF ISSUE:  On March 20, 2025, the Administration issued an Executive Order directing the Education Secretary to close the federal Department of Education and return authority over education to the states. The Department of Education provides essential guidance, support, and funding to state and local education agencies as they work to implement federal education law. It oversees national education policy and holds states accountable when needs of students are not met. Without a department, existing programs will be distributed to other federal agencies that do not have the knowledge or expertise in education. There will no longer be a national entity to ensure that every student, including those with disabilities, has equal access to a free and appropriate education in every state.

WHAT ADVOCACY HAS OCCURRED:  AMTA has joined with other associations involved in general and special education through the IDEA Implementation Coalition on a letter expressing our concerns to members of Congress.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:  Please visit the Voter Voice AMTA Action Center to tell your Senators and Representatives to keep the Department of Education and support its vital role for upholding education law that serves all students.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities Statement
• National Down Syndrome Congress Fact Sheet
• National Education Association News
• Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities Co-Chair Letter

SUPPORT AMTA:

• Email us how or if federal actions are impacting music therapy clinical practice and consumer access in your area.
• Donate to the Andrea Farbman Government Relations Fund
• Become or renew your membership

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