BLOCK Act

The BLOCK Act would fundamentally change how the federal government distributes education funding to states. Currently, the Department of Education uses specific formulas to allocate grants for various education programs, such as aid for disadvantaged students, English language learner programs, teacher quality initiatives, and rural school support. These formulas are designed to direct resources based on factors like student need, poverty levels, and school characteristics.

Under this bill, if enacted, these formula-based grants would be replaced with block grants beginning in fiscal year 2026. Block grants give states a lump sum of money based on what they received in FY2025, rather than allocating funds according to specific needs-based formulas. This means states would have more flexibility in how they spend the money but could also result in some districts receiving less funding if their student populations or needs change. The bill would affect approximately ten major education programs serving disadvantaged students, English language learners, rural schools, Native American students, and students in the juvenile justice system.

Currently, the bill is in the early stages of the legislative process and has been referred to committee. It has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.