1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about the recent mass layoffs at the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) within the Department of Education. This office plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of approximately 7.5 million children with disabilities across our nation, ensuring they receive a fair and appropriate education. The decision to fire most OSERS employees jeopardizes the oversight of the $15 billion Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) program and puts our most vulnerable students at risk. OSERS is responsible for administering IDEA, providing essential guidance to states and school districts, and ensuring compliance with federal law. While funding for special education programs continues to flow, the severe reduction in staff raises serious concerns about the lack of oversight for billions of dollars in federal funds. Without proper controls and guidance, we risk scenarios where school districts might fail to provide necessary accommodations, such as vital technology for nonverbal students. The implications of these layoffs extend beyond OSERS. Similar cuts in the Education Department's Office of Civil Rights further compromise our ability to address discrimination complaints based on race, sex, or disability. This systematic reduction in federal oversight contradicts the historical necessity for federal involvement in special education. Before the enactment of federal laws, states often failed to adequately serve students with disabilities. I urge you to take immediate action to restore staffing at OSERS and the Office of Civil Rights. We must maintain robust federal oversight to ensure consistent enforcement of special education laws across all states. The education and future of millions of children with disabilities depend on your commitment to upholding their rights and providing the resources they need to succeed. Please prioritize this issue and work towards reinstating the critical functions of these offices to protect our most vulnerable students.