Lynn C. Woolsey: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5331 would ensure that the educational records of home-schooled students are provided the same…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5331 would ensure that the educational records of home-schooled students are provided the same protections as the education records of non-home-schooled students. This legislation evens the playing field, and we have no objection to its passage. However, I am concerned that this House has the time to debate this legislation, yet has been unable to pass a Labor-HHS-Education appropriations bill. H.R. 5331 focuses on protecting the educational records of home-schooled students. Unfortunately, by our inaction on the education budget, we have failed to provide vital funding that benefits the remaining 99 percent of our children, those who attend public schools. President Bush's fiscal year 2003 budget provides for the smallest increase in education funding in the past 7 years. His budget provides only a 2.8 percent increase. Mr. Speaker, Congress has increased the education budget by 15 percent annually over the past 7 years. President Bush's proposal is absolutely unacceptable, and our time today could be much better spent if we address that issue instead of an issue we all agree on. I support passage of this legislation, but believe that the American people would be better served by the passage of an education budget.”