National PTA voices concerns over FY25 budget bill impacting public education

The budget reconciliation bill for fiscal year 2025 has passed through Congress, receiving a final vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation introduces significant changes to the public education system and federal programs that serve children and families across the nation.

National PTA President Yvonne Johnson expressed concern over the bill's inclusion of a federal private school voucher program. She stated, "National PTA is extremely disappointed that the final bill includes provisions that will impose a federal private school voucher program upon states, redirecting billions of taxpayer dollars away from public schools towards private and religious institutions and homeschooling." Johnson highlighted that such programs have not been effective in improving student achievement and lack accountability, which could deprive students of necessary rights and protections.

The bill also limits access to essential federal programs like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and CHIP. Johnson noted, "More than half of all children in the U.S. today are covered by Medicaid and CHIP and rely upon these federal programs to stay healthy and happy." She emphasized that cuts to these programs threaten families who depend on them during times of need.

For over 128 years, the National PTA has advocated for adequate resources for schools and families. Johnson reaffirmed their commitment: "We will never stop speaking up and out for our nation’s children, families and schools, and we urge advocates everywhere to join us."

The National PTA is an organization comprising millions dedicated to children's educational success and family engagement in schools. It remains a strong advocate for public education as a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association.