The A PLUS Act would let a state ask the Secretary of Education to combine federal funds from eligible education programs and use them for educational purposes allowed by state law. A state could not include funds under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The state would need approval from at least two designated state officials or a referendum, and its declaration could last up to five years. States would have to follow civil rights requirements, plan for public accountability, and report student progress each year. The bill also requires states to provide for private school participation.
If a state chooses to participate, it could have more control over how it uses certain federal education funds. Parents and the public would receive annual reports on student progress and how federal funds were used. The bill does not require states to participate.
The bill does not specify a total funding amount. It limits state administrative expenses to 1 percent of covered federal funds, or 3 percent if the state does not include Title I, Part A funds.
The bill states that its purposes are to give states and local communities more flexibility, reduce administrative burdens, and maintain public accountability, especially for the academic progress of disadvantaged students.
No publicly available information.