The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was created to ensure that all children with disabilities are provided early intervention, special education and related services.  I have supported increased federal assistance to state and local education agencies to guarantee that school systems provide eligible students a free, appropriate, public education.

I supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1), which passed the Senate and was signed into law on February 17, 2009.  Under this law, Virginia received $302 million for IDEA.  This law provides additional funding in order to improve the learning environments for millions of students. 

I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure adequate funding for IDEA and other special education programs as Congress deliberates reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act and the effect on children with disabilities.