House Democratic leaders on Thursday unveiled an $825 billion economic stimulus package with massive new education spending that goes far beyond a widely expected increase in federal Pell Grants.
While low-income college students would gain significantly under the package – with $15 billion earmarked for a $500 Pell increase – the package from the House Appropriations Committee would touch virtually all areas of the education pipeline, from early childhood to higher education.
Major K-12 programs – most of them serving at-risk youth – would gain more than $40 billion in new funds. In addition, states and localities would get another $39 billion on top of that to offset education cuts caused by the economic downturn. This fiscal relief would flow to public colleges and universities, including public minority-serving institutions, as well as K-12 school districts.
“With our economy worsening by the day, bold and strategic investments are needed to jumpstart our economy and drive long-term growth and competitiveness,” said Rep. George Miller, D-Calif., chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., wants Congress to approve a stimulus bill by Feb. 13. If enacted, the House plan would provide the new infusion of funds over a two-year period.
