Idaho Lawmakers Advance Proposal to Eliminate U.S. Department of Education
Idaho lawmakers are considering a joint memorial supporting the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education, a move championed by Governor Brad Little’s office and Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield. The proposal, introduced on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, aims to return full control of education oversight to the states.
Debate Over Public Input
The House State Affairs Committee debated whether to hold a public hearing on the memorial before advancing it. After a divided voice vote, Chairman Rep. Brent Crane, R-Nampa, ruled in favor of introducing the bill and proceeding without a hearing. This decision sparked opposition from some Democratic lawmakers who argued for the importance of public input.
Support for Elimination
House Majority Leader Jason Monks, R-Meridian, stated that Governor Little’s office requested he carry the joint memorial to Idaho’s congressional delegation. Superintendent Critchfield similarly voiced her support for eliminating the federal department. Proponents believe that shifting education oversight to the states will lead to more efficient use of taxpayer dollars and improved student outcomes.
Concerns Raised by Democrats
Rep. Monica Church, D-Boise, strongly opposed bypassing a public hearing, arguing that the public deserves an opportunity to weigh in on such a significant issue. She cautioned that eliminating the federal Department of Education could lead to substantial changes in state systems and potentially impact compliance with federal laws related to civil rights, gender discrimination and special education.
Rep. Anne Henderson Haws, D-Boise, questioned the lack of evidence supporting claims that eliminating the department would improve efficiency and student outcomes, suggesting a hearing would allow for further discussion on this matter.
What is a Joint Memorial?
A joint memorial is a formal request or declaration that does not change the law. It serves as a way for the Idaho Legislature to express its support for a particular issue to the state’s congressional delegation.
Potential Federal Action
President Donald Trump has publicly stated his support for eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, established in 1980. However, such a move would require an act of Congress.
Brent Crane’s Background
Brent J. Crane, born July 2, 1974, has served as a member of the Idaho House of Representatives for District 13, Seat A since December 1, 2006. He currently chairs the House State Affairs Committee. Crane graduated from Boise State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and has expressed interest in running for Idaho’s 1st congressional district seat in the future. He was unopposed in the Republican primary in 2024 and won the general election with 71.5% of the vote. Brent Crane Wikipedia