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AJR 19

United States Department of Education: proposed closure.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Fong and 1 co-sponsor

California Legislature calls for closure of U.S. Department of Education, expressing opposition to federal education bureaucracy and its role in setting national education policy.

Referred to Com. on ED.
#unitedstatesdepartmentofeducation #proposedclosure
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Bill Summary · AJR 19

Legislative bill overview

Assembly Joint Resolution 19 is a California state resolution that calls for the closure of the United States Department of Education. As a joint resolution, it expresses the California Legislature's position on federal policy rather than creating binding state law. The measure passed the Assembly and was sent to the Senate for consideration.

Why is this important

This resolution reflects significant debate about the federal role in education policy. The Department of Education administers federal student aid programs, enforces civil rights protections in schools, and sets accountability standards affecting millions of students nationwide. California's position on this issue carries symbolic weight given the state's size and educational influence, though the resolution is non-binding and cannot unilaterally close a federal agency.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal student aid impact: Closure would affect how federal grants and loans (Pell Grants, federal student loans) are distributed to California students and institutions
  • Civil rights enforcement: The department enforces Title IX, special education requirements (IDEA), and other protections; its elimination would shift enforcement responsibility to other agencies or eliminate it entirely
  • State education autonomy vs. consistency: Some argue federal education standards undermine local control; others contend they ensure equitable access and civil rights protections across states

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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