Bill > HR838

This bill, known as the Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success (A PLUS) Act, would allow states to submit a declaration of intent to the Secretary of Education to combine certain federal education funds and manage them more flexibly. The bill aims to give states and local communities greater autonomy in improving academic achievement by reducing administrative burdens and federal compliance requirements. Under the proposed legislation, states could consolidate funds from eligible federal education programs (excluding those for students with disabilities) and use them for any educational purpose permitted by state law, with some key restrictions and requirements. States would need to obtain approval from state authorizing officials, such as the governor or state legislature, and submit a detailed declaration of intent that includes a list of programs, assurances of civil rights compliance, and a plan for maintaining accountability to parents and citizens. Each declaration would be valid for up to 5 years and would require the state to produce an annual report detailing student performance data and how federal funds were used to improve academic achievement. The bill also limits administrative expenses to 1-3% of the aggregate federal funds, depending on the programs included, and ensures equitable participation of private school students and teachers in funded activities. Ultimately, the legislation seeks to provide states with more flexibility and local control over education funding while maintaining transparency and accountability.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/838/all-info