Federal Budget Proposal for FY 2026 Puts Key IDEA Supports at Risk
On Friday, the U.S. Department of Education released its proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026.
While the proposal emphasizes state flexibility, it would come at a serious cost to critical
national supports for children and youth with disabilities, their families, and the educators who
serve them.
The proposal eliminates all Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) National
Activities, programs that help address the growing shortage of special educators, provide training
and technical assistance, and connect families with the tools they need to advocate effectively. It
also ends funding for IDEA preschool grants, which support early intervention and foundational
services for young children.
These programs play a vital role in ensuring that every child with a disability can learn, grow,
and thrive in school and in life. The loss of these resources would have real consequences for
families and the professionals working alongside them.
While the Department has suggested reallocating some of the eliminated funds to state level
IDEA grants with expanded flexibility, however, no clear plan has been offered to show how
states would replace what is being cut. Additionally, the proposed budget reduces funding for
special education research and teacher preparation outside of IDEA, further weakening the
infrastructure that supports inclusive education.
Importantly, IDEA Part C—which supports services for infants and toddlers with disabilities,
and their families’, would receive no funding increase, despite rising needs and costs.
We believe in a future where all children receive the support they need to succeed. Cutting these
programs would be a step backward. As families, educators, and advocates, we call on Congress
to reject these harmful cuts and increase investments in IDEA and related programs.
Take Action Today
Please contact your Members of Congress and urge them to protect the full promise of IDEA.
Then share this message with others who care about inclusion and opportunity for every child.
Email your representatives today: https://p2a.co/v3GnHU8