Judge Bars Layoffs Affecting IDEA Oversight
A federal judge has indefinitely blocked the U.S. Department of Education (ED) from proceeding with mass layoffs in its special education office and more broadly while the federal government is shut down, ruling that the actions likely violate federal law and are politically motivated.
Judge Susan Illston’s decision prevents ED from moving forward with the termination of most special education experts in the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), leaving that office nearly empty. Disability advocates welcomed the ruling but warned that the future of services for students with disabilities remains uncertain, as the government may appeal. Without staff, advocates say, the department cannot fulfill its obligations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Meanwhile, Education Secretary Linda McMahon defended the layoffs, arguing that the shutdown proves the department is unnecessary and that education should be returned to the states. This position has further alarmed proponents of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, who are pushing Congress to intervene and protect federal oversight of special education.