H.R.2629 - Impact Aid Infrastructure Partnership Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2629, the Impact Aid Infrastructure Partnership Act, aims to provide federal funding to local educational agencies (LEAs) eligible for Impact Aid, focusing on construction, renovation, and repair of school facilities. The bill authorizes $250 million annually for four fiscal years, with 75% allocated for competitive grants and 25% for formula grants. These grants prioritize LEAs with facilities in poor condition or those lacking the capacity to issue bonds.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would lead to improved school facilities in federally impacted areas, particularly benefiting students and staff in LEAs with limited resources. It would also stimulate local economies through construction projects and potentially improve teacher recruitment and retention in rural areas. The act would sunset after four years unless reauthorized.
Potential Benefits
- Improved learning environments for students in federally impacted areas.
- Enhanced health and safety standards in school facilities.
- Economic stimulus through construction projects and job creation.
- Support for LEAs with limited bonding capacity.
- Potential for increased teacher recruitment and retention, especially in rural areas.
Potential Disadvantages
- The limited four-year authorization period may create uncertainty for long-term projects.
- The competitive grant process could disadvantage some eligible LEAs.
- The local matching requirements may pose a challenge for some LEAs with limited resources.
- The funds may be insufficient to address all the infrastructure needs of federally impacted schools.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in the grant application and disbursement process.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. By improving educational facilities, the bill promotes education, which is generally considered a state responsibility, but the federal government has historically played a role through funding and grants. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).