The PEAL Center Statement on Proposed Federal Changes Affecting Special Education and Civil Rights Enforcement
Last week, the U.S. Department of Education announced plans to move the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to the U.S. Department of Justice.
These federal offices play a critical role in implementing and enforcing the rights of students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other federal disability laws. Any changes to these functions raise important questions about how special education and disability-related protections will be administered in the future.
While PEAL Center is closely monitoring these developments, we want Pennsylvania families to know that special education laws have not changed. IDEA has not changed. Section 504 has not changed. Your rights and your children's rights have not changed.
Families should continue to participate in IEP meetings, request evaluations and services when needed, and work with their schools and service providers to ensure children receive the supports they need.
PEAL Center's commitment to Pennsylvania families remains unchanged. We will continue to provide information, training, individual assistance, and peer support to help families navigate special education, early intervention, health care, transition services, and other disability-related systems. We remain fully operational and dedicated to ensuring that families have access to trusted information and support.
As additional information becomes available regarding these federal changes, we will continue to share updates to help families understand any potential impact on services, supports, and protections for children and youth with disabilities.
