Gary Condit: “I would like to explain the reasons for my vote on H.R. 6, the Elementary and Secondary Education Reauthorization.…”

“I would like to explain the reasons for my vote on H.R. 6, the Elementary and Secondary Education Reauthorization. During the course of the debate on this bill, I have become very concerned with potential unfunded mandates that may result from its enactment. As a result of this concern, I have attempted to amend H.R. 6 so as to make the model opportunity-to-learn standards, contained in title 1, voluntary. I am somewhat pleased that an amendment was added to title 1 which stipulates that the implementation of opportunity-to-learn standards will be voluntary for States. Unfortunately, States will still have to develop these standards, even though they will not have to implement them. There are no doubt other mandates in H.R. 6 which may result in direct costs to States and local school districts. It has been reported that H.R. 6 contains 23 new reporting requirements for State and local education agencies. For this reason, many have suggested that we defeat this legislation. And while H.R. 6 certainly has flaws and a better bill could probably be drafted, it is important to realize that H.R. 6 is must-pass legislation. The overwhelming majority of Federal programs for our public schools will receive their authority under H.R. 6. In order to continue these programs, such as chapter 1 and Even Start, we must reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.”