Department of Education Protection Act

# Department of Education Protection Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would prevent the Department of Education from using federal funding to reduce its size, cut staff, or significantly change how it operates compared to its structure on January 1, 2025. In other words, it would freeze the department's organization and staffing levels at their current size, prohibiting layoffs or major restructuring funded through appropriated money. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects the Department of Education and its employees. It could also impact schools and students indirectly, since changes to the federal education agency could theoretically influence how federal education programs function. **Current Status:** The bill is in committee (early stage) and has not yet been voted on by Congress.

It was introduced by Representative Jahana Hayes, a Democrat from Connecticut. The bill addresses a topic of current political interest—the size and scope of federal agencies—though it remains in the initial legislative process.