Republican states push for federal education funds as block grants to reduce federal oversight.

Republican-led states are seeking to consolidate federal education funding into block grants with fewer restrictions, aiming to reduce federal oversight and give states more control. Iowa and Oklahoma have submitted requests, with up to a dozen other states likely to follow. Supporters argue it will provide greater flexibility, while critics fear funds may be diverted from low-income and English-learning students. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has expressed support for state autonomy but has not explicitly endorsed the block grant plan.