Statement from Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson on the Trump Administration's Elimination of $1 Billion in School Mental Health Grants

Statement from Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson on the Trump Administration's Elimination of $1 Billion in School Mental Health Grants

The Trump administration's decision to terminate $1 billion in school mental health funding is a profound disservice to our nation's children, particularly those from historically marginalized communities. This action not only undermines the bipartisan efforts established under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act but also signals a troubling shift away from addressing the pressing mental health needs of our students.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics reveals that only 48% of public schools report being able to effectively provide mental health services to all students in need-a decline from previous years. The primary barriers cited include insufficient staffing and inadequate funding. Moreover, 58% of schools have reported an increase in students seeking mental health services, highlighting the growing demand for support.

The administration's rationale-that these grants were misused to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives-is a misrepresentation of the essential role DEI plays in creating supportive educational environments. Efforts to recruit a diverse mental health workforce are not about imposing quotas; they are about ensuring that students see themselves reflected in the professionals who support them, which is critical for effective mental health care.

This move is part of a broader pattern of actions aimed at dismantling DEI initiatives and civil rights protections. In the first 100 days of this term, the administration has targeted diversity policies and civil rights protections, including revoking a 1965 executive order supporting equal employment opportunities and dismantling programs aiding marginalized communities.

By eliminating these grants, the administration is not only ignoring the mental health crisis in our schools but also actively working against the progress made in creating equitable educational environments. This decision will disproportionately affect students of color, who often face systemic barriers to accessing mental health services.

I stand in strong opposition to this decision and urge my colleagues in Congress to take immediate action to restore this critical funding. Our students deserve access to comprehensive mental health services, and we must continue to fight for policies that promote equity, inclusion, and the well-being of all children.

- Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson