Hastings Introduces the Civics Learning Act of 2021

Press Release

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) introduced the Civics Learning Act of 2021, which amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to increase civics education programs in our nation's schools. Joining Hastings as original co-sponsors include: Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-CA), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), André Carson (D-IN), Sean Casten (D-IL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), David N. Cicilline (D-RI), Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY), Charlie Crist (D-FL), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Jim Himes (D-CT), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), William R. Keating (D-MA), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Annie Kuster (D-NH), Jim Langevin (D-RI), John B. Larson (D-CT), Al Lawson (D-FL), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA), Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY), Betty McCollum (DFL-MN), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Grace Meng (D-NY), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA), Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Albio Sires (D-NJ), Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Susan Wild (D-PA), and Nikema Williams (D-GA). (Please find a copy of the bill attached):

"On the dawn of a new presidential administration following four years of leadership that did all it could to undermine and erode our democratic institutions, we must take stock of how we arrived at this place in our history and recommit to ensuring our students have access to high quality civics education. That is why I introduced the Civics Learning Act of 2021, which increases federal support for innovative civics learning programs that can empower the next generation of American leaders and, thereby, strengthen our democracy and commitment to the rule of law for decades to come," said Hastings.

Bill Summary:

The Civics Learning Act of 2021 increases funding for innovative and evidence-based civics learning and teaching programs, including hands-on civic engagement activities, online and video game-based learning, service learning, and participation in student governance. Recognizing that most civics programs focus on high school teachers and students, this bill would ensure funding for elementary, middle, and high school programs to create a strong foundation for civic knowledge.

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