House education panel advances package to dismantle Education Department

July 16, 2026 - 19:53

The House Education and Workforce Committee has voted to advance a legislative package aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. The proposal would permanently shift the agency's core programs and responsibilities to other federal departments or to the states.

Supporters of the plan argue that the Education Department has overstepped its original mandate and that local control over schools would improve outcomes. They say the department's functions, such as student loan management and civil rights enforcement, can be handled by other agencies like the Treasury or the Justice Department. The bill also seeks to eliminate federal oversight of K-12 curriculum and testing requirements.

Opponents warn that the move would create chaos for millions of students and families. They point to the department's role in distributing Title I funds to low-income schools and managing Pell Grants for college students. Critics also argue that dismantling the department would weaken protections for students with disabilities and civil rights enforcement in schools.

The package now heads to the full House for a vote, though its fate in the Senate remains uncertain. The White House has signaled strong opposition to the bill.