Coalition urges Congress to block Trump plan to shift special-education duties

The Trump administration’s June proposal to relocate two core Education Department functions—special-education services to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and civil-rights enforcement to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche—has sparked a broad backlash. Kennedy’s earlier statements labeling autism an “epidemic” and his hiring of anti-vaccine activist David Geier have raised alarms among disability advocates.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s decision to hand over the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and civil-rights investigations to these officials prompted concerns about reduced protections and potential Medicaid cuts. Roughly 700 local, state and national groups, together with former DOE leaders, are urging Congress to preserve the department, while Senators such as Tim Kaine and House members like Suzanne Bonamici are leading efforts to block the transfers. Advocates stress that the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act remains law, guaranteeing a free appropriate public education, and warn that the changes could be reversed after the upcoming election.