ALEXANDRIA, Va., (July 3, 2025)—The following statement can be attributed to National PTA President Yvonne Johnson:

“Today, the budget reconciliation bill for fiscal year 2025 passed through Congress with a final vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill makes dramatic reforms to our nation’s public education system and to federal government programs that serve millions of children and families.

“National PTA is extremely disappointed that the final bill includes provisions that will impose a federal private school voucher program upon states, redirecting billions of taxpayer dollars away from public schools towards private and religious institutions and homeschooling. Voucher programs have proven ineffective in improving student achievement, lack accountability, deprive students of the rights and protections they would receive in public schools, and fail in providing adequate services for students most in need, including students with disabilities, students from low-income families, those who have been traditionally underserved and English learners. Public dollars carry the responsibility for providing public access, governance and accountability and must remain invested in public schools for the benefit of all students and families and the future of our nation.  

“It is also devastating that the bill limits access to vital federal programs—like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid and CHIP—that serve families most in need. More than half of all children in the U.S. today are covered by Medicaid and CHIP and rely upon these federal programs to stay healthy and happy. Federal nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC play a critical role in helping children and students build healthy minds and bodies, be ready to learn at school, and thrive into adulthood. The funding cuts and eligibility changes to the programs included in the final bill are a severe threat to families for which these programs provide a lifeline in times of need.

“For over 128 years, PTA has advocated and worked to ensure all schools and families have the proper resources and support needed to help all children learn, grow and succeed. Our association remains steadfast in our belief that the long-term success of our nation depends on quality federal investments in our education system as well as programs and services that provide for children’s health and well-being. We will never stop speaking up and out for our nation’s children, families and schools, and we urge advocates everywhere to join us.”

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit PTA.org.