Disability Groups Fear Kennedy's New Role in Shaping Special Education Policy and Reform
Advocates for disabled students have expressed concern over the Trump administration's decision to shift special education programs to the Health Department, citing Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s previous claims about autism.
The move has sparked a sharp backlash, with critics arguing that Kennedy's views on autism make him unfit for the role. Earlier this year, Kennedy stated that children with autism would never hold a job, play baseball, or go on a date, before later clarifying that he was only referring to severe cases.
Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc, a national support group for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, said the decision demonstrates a "fundamental lack of understanding" of students with disabilities and their potential for success.
The transfer of special education programs is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restructure the Education Department, with the goal of improving government efficiency and student outcomes. The administration has already transferred tens of billions of dollars in Education Department programs to six federal executive agencies, including health and human services.
The move has sparked a sharp backlash, with critics arguing that Kennedy's views on autism make him unfit for the role. Earlier this year, Kennedy stated that children with autism would never hold a job, play baseball, or go on a date, before later clarifying that he was only referring to severe cases.
Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc, a national support group for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, said the decision demonstrates a "fundamental lack of understanding" of students with disabilities and their potential for success.
The transfer of special education programs is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restructure the Education Department, with the goal of improving government efficiency and student outcomes. The administration has already transferred tens of billions of dollars in Education Department programs to six federal executive agencies, including health and human services.
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