Ohio Congresswoman Kaptur's Letter On I.D.E.A.
June 17, 2003

Ms. Sue Hetrick, Advocacy Program Director
The Ability Center of Greater Toledo
5605 Monroe Street
Sylvania, Ohio 43560

Dear Ms. Hetrick:

Thank you for affording me the opportunity to take part in today's discussion on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. I regret that a previous commitment I prevents my attendance at your rally. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the landmark bill that has opened the schoolhouse doors for millions of American children for more than a quarter of a century.

In May 2003, the U.S. House passed H.R. 1261 to reauthorize IDEA. I voted against this unfair bill because it weakens America's commitment to children with disabilities and their parents. It not only fails to provide adequate funding but also weakens the protection of disabled students against unfair disciplinary measures.

When IDEA was first passed, Congress declared the federal government would bear the additional cost of educating disabled children. Unfortunately, Congress has never provided sufficient funds to make that commitment a reality. H.R. 1261 again failed to follow through on that promise to America's disabled children.

The bill weakened the protections for disabled students from unfair disciplinary measures that do not take into account the student's disability. It also unwisely reduced the information that parents receive so they know their children are receiving the educational instruction to which they are entitled. I understand the concerns with excessive paperwork, but individual plans are crucial to making sure disabled students get the particular help they need.

I am disappointed the Republican majority in the House passed such a flawed bill. Rest assured that I will continue to support quality education for all children with disabilities.

Please know that I support your advocacy on behalf of this important issue, and will continue to support the families and children that advocate for equal access to quality education for individuals with disabilities.

Sincerely
Marcy Kaptur
Member of Congress

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