Opposing Student Success Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to H.R. 5, a misguided bill which denies America's children access to high-quality education.

Today, greater numbers of economically disadvantaged children are entering our public schools. For example, in my State of Texas, of the 5 million students enrolled in public schools in 2014 statewide, more than 3 million would be adversely impacted if we vote to pass H.R. 5.

This Republican bill abandons the Federal Government's historic commitment to educating disadvantaged populations. H.R. 5 block grants vital Federal programs, such as title I of the education code targeted for English language learners, migrant children, neglected and delinquent youth, and Native American education.

The bill allows States and districts to siphon away these Federal funds and use them for other purposes because of the proposed changes in the intent of the many education programs passed many years ago--50 years ago to be exact--under the leadership of President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

H.R. 5 would provide inadequate funding and move backward on equity and accountability, harming the education of our Nation's children.

I respectfully urge Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to vote ``no'' on final passage today.

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