Kennedy Warns of Devastating Impacts as Trump Admin Threatens Protections for Students with Disabilities

Kennedy, Congress's Only Occupational Therapist, Sounded Alarm on Cuts to Early Intervention Services

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) delivered a speech on the House floor underscoring the devastating impact of the Trump administration's attacks on the Department of Education and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Compounded by recent cuts to Medicaid, Kennedy warned that efforts to dismantle federal special education programs, including early intervention, jeopardize access to special education and place new financial and emotional burdens on working families.

"Early intervention care alters the course of a child's life for the better, supports a vital workforce, dramatically improves health and educational outcomes, and gives working families the support they desperately need," said Congressman Kennedy. "Republicans in this body need to remember the sacred promise made to children with disabilities 50 years ago, and to stand by it, rather than turn a blind eye."

(Congressman Kennedy's full remarks here.)

For decades, IDEA has been a cornerstone of education and opportunity for families raising children with disabilities, ensuring that all students receive the services they need to learn, grow, and participate fully in their communities. In Western New York, where working families already face rising health care costs, critical workforce shortages, and limited access to affordable child care, special education and early intervention give families the tools, resources, and stability needed to help their children thrive.

Drawing on his experience as an occupational therapist, Kennedy emphasized that early intervention, such as disability support for children from birth to age three known as IDEA Part C, improves long-term educational and health outcomes, and reduces future costs for schools and taxpayers. He stressed that investing in special education early on is also an investment in the local workforce, supporting teachers, therapists, health care professionals, and service providers throughout Western New York and beyond.

The administration's efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and weaken IDEA, combined with recent cuts to Medicaid funding, deepen educational inequities, cut off access to care during pivotal developmental years, and undermine a fundamental promise the nation has made to children with disabilities for half a century. He made clear that these proposals are not simply budgetary decisions but choices that would shift costs onto the families least able to absorb them. Kennedy reaffirmed his commitment to protecting IDEA and defending the right of every child to a quality education, stressing that a stronger economy and a stronger nation depend on supporting working families and ensuring that no child is left behind because of disability.

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