SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) praised the Department of Education’s recent announcement releasing nearly $5.5 billion in Congressionally-approved education funds that had been illegally withheld from states. The release follows sustained pressure from Budzinski and more than 150 House Democrats demanding the administration restore the funds.
“After we turned up the pressure, I’m glad to see the Trump administration do the right thing and release the education funds they have been illegally withholding from our communities,” Budzinski said. She stressed that the delay should never have happened and emphasized her commitment to holding the administration accountable to ensure the funds reach local school districts, especially as the new school year approaches.
Earlier this month, Budzinski joined other lawmakers in sending a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon and OMB Director Russell Vought condemning the freeze, which had threatened school district budgets, led to teacher layoffs, and disrupted planning for millions of students.
Following the letter, the administration first released $1.3 billion for 21st Century Community Learning Centers on July 21. The latest announcement includes the remaining $5.5 billion.
This action comes after Budzinski’s previous efforts, including a May town hall in East St. Louis addressing the withholding of $19 million in ESSER funds critical for school HVAC upgrades. Those funds were released on July 1 after combined pressure from Budzinski, teachers’ unions, and the community.