By Patricia Nellius, Executive Director, Federation for Children with Special Needs
The Federation for Children with Special Needs is closely monitoring the announcement by the U.S. Department of Education regarding new interagency agreements with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Justice. These agreements would shift day-to-day responsibilities related to special education and rehabilitative services, as well as civil rights enforcement and student privacy, across federal agencies.
For over 50 years, federal special education law has promised children with disabilities the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education in the least restrictive environment. Families depend on clear federal leadership, specialized expertise, transparent guidance, and strong enforcement to make those rights real in classrooms and communities. Any restructuring of federal responsibilities must not weaken the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504, the Americans with Disabilities Act, civil rights protections, or the ability of families to access timely support and remedies.
We are deeply concerned about the uncertainty this announcement creates for children with disabilities, their families, educators, and the organizations that support them. The expertise housed within the Office of Special Education (OSEP) and Rehabilitation Services (OSERS) and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is essential to ensuring that students’ educational and civil rights are understood, protected, and enforced. Families should not experience disruption, confusion, or additional barriers when seeking services, filing complaints, or advocating for their children.
The Federation calls on federal leaders to provide immediate clarity about how these agreements will be implemented; preserve the authority, funding, staffing, and expertise needed to uphold IDEA and civil rights laws; maintain accessible pathways for families to receive technical assistance and resolve complaints; and ensure that every child with a disability continues to receive the protections and supports guaranteed under federal law. We will continue to review available information, work with partners, and advocate for children and families at every level.
Patricia Nellius
Executive Director
Federation for Children with Special Needs
Read the federal announcement referenced in this statement: U.S. Department of Education Announces Additional Partnerships to Strengthen Coordination for Individuals with Disabilities Programs and Bolster Civil Rights