An open letter to State Governors & Legislatures (Utah only)
Please Oppose HB 215!
13 so far! Help us get to 25 signers!
As a lifelong Utah resident, I have been privileged to attend both the public school system and a private university. I have been inspired by countless educators who devote their lives to educating the rising generation and wholeheartedly support raising teachers’ salaries. However, as a person who also has a disability, HB 215 is downright appalling. According to the bill, parents who opt in to the private school voucher program would waive their IDEA federal rights for special education services. As a student I qualified to receive these services and they helped me immensely in preparing for school and life. I remember as a kindergartner being helped by an aide who made sure I could open the doors to the restroom when I needed it. I remember having a wooden stool placed under my desk to help the extremely tight muscles in my legs and feet develop and be strengthened while sitting at a desk. I cannot fathom living in a state where students’ federal rights are taken away based on where their parents choose to send them to school. These rights must be protected. I vehemently oppose HB 215 and urge you to do the same. I will be watching the outcome of this bill closely. If I find out you voted in favor of this bill, you will not be receiving my vote in the next election, whether or not the bill passes.