Dysfunction prevailed again in Congress last week.
House Republicans failed in their efforts to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas—they may try again—and advance other legislation. Over in the Senate, MAGA-led Republicans initially blocked action on a major foreign aid and national security bill. In both chambers, U.S. support for Ukraine and Israel and humanitarian aid for Gaza remain in doubt.
Meanwhile, members of NEA’s Board of Directors took the long view and focused on building relationships and lifting up the critical needs of students and educators.
In meetings on Capitol Hill, they urged members of the Senate and the House to cosponsor the ESP “Bill of Rights” (S.Res. 450/H.Res. 990). The resolution recognizes the essential role of Education Support Professionals and calls for them to get what they deserve: a living wage, access to healthcare, and safe working conditions.
They also urged members of both chambers to cosponsor the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act (S. 2581/H.R. 5030), which would continue through FY2026 essential funding for schools, communities, and public services. That support would help address the dire shortage of educators in rural areas as well.
The focus shifted to the Senate when it came to the expanded Child Tax Credit, which has already passed the House. Part of the bipartisan Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act (H.R. 7024), the expanded credit would benefit 80 percent of U.S. children from low-income families during the first year it is in effect.
Help amplify their voices. Tell Congress what you think!
In solidarity,
Marc Egan
Government Relations Director
National Education Association
CHEER: Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) reintroduced the Proprietary Education Oversight Task Force Act, which would create and task an interagency committee with improving coordination of federal oversight of for-profit colleges.
CHEER: Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced the Preparing and Retaining All (PARA) Educators Act (S. 3681), which would establish a grant program to help schools recruit, train, and retain paraeducators.
CHEER: Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT) introduced the Paraprofessionals and Education Support Staff Bill of Rights Resolution (H.Res. 990), which calls for calls for a living wage, access to health care, paid leave, safe working conditions, a voice in the workplace, and more.
CHEER: Reps. Glenn Thompson (R-PA) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced a resolution to recognize February as National Career and Technical Education Month.
