Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation Statement on Texas-Specific Language to Prevent State Diversion of Education Funds

Statement

U.S. Rep. Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) announced today, the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation issued the following statement on language contained in the House-passed Supplemental Appropriations bill to prevent state-diversion of $820 million in emergency education jobs funds elsewhere for noneducational use (Texas Legislative Language begins on Pg. 14 here). Because of State diversion of funds last year, Texas schools received no additional benefit from the $3.25 billion provided to Texas in State Fiscal Stabilization monies by the Economic Recovery Act:

Last year, we voted for the Economic Recovery Act, which included $3.25 billion to support local Texas school districts. But instead of using these funds as Congress intended, State Republican Leadership used them to replace state education funding, thereby denying an increase in support for our local school districts.

We want to ensure that any new emergency funds Congress provides for education actually help our Texas schools. We have requested additional protections be incorporated into any Supplemental Appropriations legislation specifically for Texas schoolchildren to ensure local districts actually receive this federal help. These protections will ensure that the $820 million in new emergency federal funds for education go to preserve teacher jobs throughout the State and meet other local education needs.

These funds would go to local schools as long as the Governor certifies that (1) federal funds are not used merely to replace state education support, and (2) education funding will not be cut proportionally more than any other item in the upcoming Texas General Appropriations Act. This prevents any further shell games with federal education dollars at the expense of local schools districts. This approach has been endorsed by Texas statewide education organizations representing teachers, principals, school boards, school administrators, and nearly 40 superintendents.

A solid education is the foundation on which our economy and our democracy rest. Our support for our local school districts reflects a two-fold understanding: First, local districts know best what the needs of their students, teachers, and administrators are. Second, especially in times of a difficult economy, we need to invest in our schools.

Our language helps ensure local school districts in Texas have the support they need.

Earlier this month, statewide groups representing teachers, principals, schools boards, and school administrators, joined about 40 superintendents from across the State to endorse the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation's approach of the inclusion of Texas-specific language in pending legislation. Their letter of support is attached.