House Education and the Workforce Committee Rejects Resolution on Department of Education Transparency
On Wednesday, the House Education and Workforce Committee voted along party lines to adversely report a resolution that would require the Trump Administration to share its plans for reorganizing the U.S. Department of Education, with Republicans voting against the measure and Democrats voting in favor.
The resolution, H. Res. 237, sponsored by Ranking Member Bobby Scott (D-VA) asks for documents about closures, staffing cuts, and downsizing activities. It also requests information on how the Administration plans to meet its obligations under various education laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act if the Department were to close.
Although the vote wasn't technically a "no," it sends the resolution to the House floor with a recommendation against passage. While the resolution doesn't have the legal power of a subpoena, its introduction highlights legal concerns and indicates that the White House hasn't provided important materials to Congress.