Number: RS22894
Title: School Construction, Modernization, Renovation, and Repair Issues: 110th Congress
Authors: Gail McCallion, Specialist in Social Policy 
Abstract: The 111th Congress is expected to consider economic recovery legislation when it convenes in January of 2009. This legislation may include new funding for school infrastructure. It is not yet known how much funding will be provided for schools, or what kinds of school projects will be authorized by this new legislation. In the 110th Congress, legislation (H.R. 3021) was adopted by the full House of Representatives on June 4, 2008, that would provide grants to states for school modernization, renovation, and repair. In response to ongoing concerns about the physical condition of schools and a congressional mandate, in 2000, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) issued a one-time study with estimates of needed modernization, renovation, and repair to school buildings or building features. This remains the latest reliable estimate of these needs. ED estimated the costs to bring school facilities into good condition in 1999 at $127 billion.
Pages: 5
Date: December 30, 2008