As some of you may know, the president’s proposed “Skinny Budget,” which was released earlier this month, proposes cutting all federal funding for adult education. This would be devastating to our field, our students, and our communities.
The elimination of WIOA funds would have a ripple effect throughout the field, even for programs that do not receive federal funding. It would almost certainly increase enrollments at non-federally funded programs and increase inequity in education between states.
The economic health and stability of our country is directly linked to our ability to provide access to adult education. Every year, our nation loses billions of dollars in lost earnings, health care, workplace productivity, crime, and government assistance on account of low adult literacy. Funding adult education is imperative to our future.
We are asking ALL our members and allies to act now before Congress considers the president’s budget proposal.
Contact your legislators today.
Call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 to be connected with your legislators or use this link to find their direct contact information. You can use the message:
“Hello, my name is ____(your name)_____, and I would like to ask for your support for adult education, which was cut in the president’s “skinny budget” proposal. The elimination of this funding would have a devastating impact on our programs, those who receive federal funding, and those who do not. Adult education programs are key drivers of building a skilled workforce, family-sustaining wages, and an improved US economy, creating stronger and more sustainable communities for generations to come. Please protect funding for these essential educational programs.”
We are working tirelessly with partners across the country in support of maintaining and expanding adult education services. ProLiteracy Sr. Advocacy, Research, and Projects Manager Lauren Osowski participated this week in the National Coalition for Literacy‘s Adult Education & Literacy Congressional Open House in D.C. She joined leaders from across our field in voicing concerns to legislators about the “Skinny Budget” and the adverse effects of eliminating funding for adult literacy and education.
Share information with friends, family, and your network.
It is likely that the passion for the work you do is clear to those around you. Ask those who are willing to join us in sharing messages of support with their own legislators and/or on social media.