Healthy Schools Network, joined by over 40 leading state, federal, and Tribal organizations, is proud to support a Congressional effort led by Senator Gillibrand (NY) and Representatives McClellan (VA) and Dexter (OR) to provide $100 million in FY 2026 funding for EPA’s programs on healthy schools and children’s health.
These essential funds would support EPA’s Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools program—long considered the federal government’s most effective and science-driven assistance to schools in addressing indoor air hazards. Poor indoor air quality is one of the most persistent, yet overlooked, threats to learning and health, especially in low-income and rural-remote schools.
The sign-on letter, which will be delivered to the committee on appropriations this week, underscores the urgent need for federal investment in healthier school environments. “EPA’s IAQ Tools for Schools program helps educators and school facility staff tackle a complex mix of indoor air problems—from asthma triggers and poor ventilation to unsafe chemical storage and cleaning practices,” the letter states.
Many members of Congress—30 in the House, 20 in the Senate—signed letters in May requesting funding for EPA’s school and children’s health programs. Our new letter from healthy school advocates will amplify the call for funding as EPA’s appropriations are considered in the weeks ahead.
Take action:
- You can voice your support by calling or emailing your members of Congress. Find them by entering your zip code at this link, and let them know you support $100 million in EPA’s FY 2026 appropriation to protect children’s health and improve learning environments in schools.
- Join the Coalition for Healthier Schools. You’ll receive updates and alerts on federal policies. Email us at info@healthyschools.org to be added.
Healthy Schools Network thanks school advocates across the US who are standing up for healthy environments in every school.
Other News
Floods: An Increasing Risk for Schools
We’re thrilled to share a NewsSlice exclusive article written by Jeffrey Peterson, author of A New Coast: Strategies for Responding to Devastating Storms and Rising Seas, about the challenges facing schools in vulnerable regions. It could not be more timely, with hurricane season upon us. We will continue to feature articles from readers highlighting local challenges and solutions, policy successes, and news that inspires and informs. To suggest or submit a story, please contact us at info@healthyschools.org.
165 Million Americans Exposed to PFAS in Drinking Water
A stunning new analysis from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reveals that up to 165 million people are at risk of drinking PFAS-contaminated tap water, based on updated EPA testing data. EPA acknowledges that children may be more sensitive to the harmful effects of chemicals such as PFAS, and they can also be exposed more than adults.
Among the key findings:
- The additional EPA monitoring data brings the total known number of PFAS-contaminated sites identified on EWG’s map to 9,323.
- No region is exempt—rural, suburban, and urban communities alike are affected
- Noting that EPA’s plan to reverse drinking water standards for PFAS likely contradicts requirements in the Safe Drinking Water Act, EWG urges Congress and the administration to accelerate cleanups, eliminate unnecessary uses of PFAS, and fund upgrades to drinking water systems.
Read the EWG news release.
