Arizona’s congressional delegation is pressuring the federal government to release $118 million in delayed education funding, as concerns grow nationwide over a $6.8 billion freeze in school support.
U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton and U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, both Democrats from Arizona, sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought and Education Secretary Linda McMahon, urging them to immediately release the funds. The letter highlights the urgency for Arizona schools, many of which start their school year earlier than other states—one district begins classes on July 16, 2025.
The funding, originally set to be distributed on July 1, was halted after the OMB determined that education departments had a history of misusing grant programs. While OMB officials said no official cuts have been made, the freeze has sparked concerns across the Southwest and beyond.
“This freeze is putting Arizona school districts in an impossible financial situation,” the letter stated, noting that budgets and contracts for the new school year have already been finalized.
The Arizona Department of Education responded, saying it is working closely with school districts and charter schools to manage the potential impact on their fiscal year 2026 grant applications. “We are working to obtain more information and access the federal funds as soon as possible,” the department said in a press release.
Arizona is not alone. Lawmakers and education leaders in other states have also expressed frustration over the funding delay:
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Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) warned the freeze could devastate public education in California, threatening after-school programs and English-language classes. “This reckless decision threatens the future of America’s workforce and our global competitiveness,” he said.
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Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal said the state could lose $137 million—over 15% of its federal K–12 funding. “Districts have made programming and hiring decisions based on expected funds,” he said, calling the freeze a major financial risk.
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Georgia Superintendent Richard Woods also called for the immediate release of $201 million. “Being fiscally responsible means honoring funds already approved by Congress and signed into law,” he said.
The Center Square contacted Colorado’s Attorney General’s Office for comment, but officials there declined to respond.
As the school year approaches, pressure continues to mount on the federal government to act quickly and ensure districts aren’t left scrambling without crucial resources.
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