Parents of children with disabilities and advocacy groups are raising concerns over the Trump administration’s decision to shift key Education Department responsibilities to other federal agencies.
According to the Associated Press, school civil rights enforcement will move to the Department of Justice, while special education oversight will be transferred to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Supporters of the restructuring say the changes could improve services and streamline support for families. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has argued the move will help deliver resources more effectively while advancing President Donald Trump’s goal of reducing the Education Department’s role.
Critics, however, warn the transition could worsen existing delays. The report said many discrimination complaints and special education cases have already faced lengthy backlogs, with some remaining unresolved for years.
Advocates also argue that disabilities should be treated as educational issues rather than medical conditions. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed reservations, and some have pledged legislative action to keep special education oversight outside Health and Human Services.
Parents say the ultimate measure of success will be whether children receive timely services and protections.
Related Tweet:
Families of kids with disabilities warn Education Department changes could break a flawed system https://t.co/bk8p3Vj26k
— Chicago Tribune (@chicagotribune) June 18, 2026
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