Senate Panel Considers Vote to Shield Special Education from RFK Jr.'s Agency A Senate committee is considering a vote in July to prevent the Trump administration from transferring core functions of federal special education programs to the Health and Human Services Department, which is overseen by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The proposal, which has sparked significant debate, aims to preserve the current structure of the Education Department’s Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. The move is part of President Donald Trump’s yearlong campaign to restructure federal agencies, though the source text does not explicitly state this as a broader effort. The potential transfer of special education responsibilities to HHS has raised concerns among disability rights groups, who fear the shift could disrupt critical services for students with disabilities. Critics have pointed to RFK Jr.’s past controversial remarks about autism, including a 2023 press conference where he claimed the condition “destroys families.” Federal officials have not provided a clear timeline for the transition, but they have asserted that students’ rights will remain protected. A summary of the proposed interagency partnership states that the change “will not impact students, parents, or families.” Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the move, stating it would “deliver more effective support for individuals with disabilities and their families.” In a statement, he emphasized the goal of improving education and employment outcomes while upholding the rights of individuals with disabilities. However, the plan faces strong opposition from key lawmakers, particularly within the Republican Party. Sen.#education_department #robert_f_kennedy_jr #senate_committee #health_and_human_services_department #bill_cassidy
