Congressman Scott Fitzgerald from Wisconsin and Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming have introduced the Stopping Teachers Unions from Damaging Education Needs Today (STUDENT) Act. The legislation aims to reform the federal charter of the National Education Association (NEA) with a focus on enhancing student learning and educational quality in U.S. schools.
The STUDENT Act proposes several changes to the NEA’s charter, including removing its exemption from D.C. property tax, prohibiting discrimination or hiring quotas, requiring explicit consent for dues payments, and preventing strikes or work stoppages. It also mandates that NEA officers be U.S. citizens and requires comprehensive record-keeping by the organization. Additionally, it stipulates that if dissolved, NEA assets should go to the Department of the Treasury.
Rep. Fitzgerald expressed concern over what he views as a shift in NEA’s focus from education to political activism: “The NEA long ago transformed from an educational association into a political machine, pushing a progressive agenda that puts activists ahead of students’ needs.”
Senator Lummis criticized the NEA for prioritizing ideology over education: “The NEA has exploited its federal charter to advance a radical political agenda that puts ideology before education.”
Aaron Withe, CEO of the Freedom Foundation, praised Fitzgerald and Lummis for their initiative: “Rep. Fitzgerald and Sen. Lummis should be commended for their leadership in introducing the STUDENT Act.”
BACKGROUND: The NEA received its federal charter through Congress in 1906 and is considered non-partisan but has been involved in liberal causes through endorsements and contributions.
