Ohio reps push to dismantle Education Department

State Representatives David Thomas (R- Jefferson) and Mark Hiner (R-Howard) have introduced a House resolution calling for the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education and the restoration of education authority to the states, local communities, and families.

The resolution reaffirms constitutional principles of federalism and asserts that education is not a power delegated to the federal government. It outlines concerns that decades of expanded federal involvement in education have resulted in increased bureaucracy, regulatory burdens, and administrative costs, without corresponding improvements in student achievement.

“Unless citizens change the federal constitution to include responsibility for education at the federal level, this service rests at the state and local level and should return there,” said Rep. Thomas. “This resolution calls to remove the middleman, the federal bureaucracy, while keeping intact the federal tax dollars our taxpayers pay which would continue to flow to the state.”

Representatives Thomas and Hiner emphasize that states and local communities are better positioned to respond to the needs of students and families, and that decision-making authorities should rest with those closest to the classroom. The resolution also supports ongoing efforts at the federal level to reduce the scope and size of the U.S. Department of Education and shift limited essential functions to more appropriate agencies.

“Education works best when decisions are made closest to the classroom,” said Rep. Hiner. “This resolution reinforces the constitutional role of states and local communities by empowering parents and local leaders, not federal bureaucracies, to shape education policy that works for students.”

In addition to the House resolution, similar discussions are taking place in the Ohio Senate. Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) has initiated a companion Concurrent Resolution addressing the role of the federal government in education and reinforcing the principle of state-led education policy.

The House resolution would begin the process for the State of Ohio to transition into taking over the administrative responsibility with the creation of a task force and the urging of state agencies to identify programs and laws which will need addressed.

The House resolution reflects a commitment to accountability, parental involvement, and locally driven education solutions designed to improve outcomes for Ohio students.

This piece of legislation awaits a number and committee assignment.