AK HJR45

Alaska Legislature urges U.S. Congress to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) at the promised 40% of average per-pupil special education costs, up from the current approximately 13% federal contribution

Over 7 million children nationwide and 20,578 students in Alaska (15% of public school population) qualify for special education services, with Alaska's eligible students increasing from 18,023 in 2014

Federal funding commitment has never been met since IDEA's enactment, with the closest being 18% funding during 2004-2006, creating financial burdens on states, districts, and families

Resolution specifically supports H.R. 2598, the "IDEA Full Funding Act," which would incrementally increase funding from fiscal year 2026 through 2035 to reach the 40% commitment

Alaska faces unique challenges including vast geographical distances, high costs for recruiting specialized providers in rural areas, and record-high teacher vacancies in special education