WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01), members of the House Committee on Appropriations, led a letter to U.S. Department of State Secretary Marco Rubio demanding answers on the ongoing grant disbursement freeze of educational and cultural exchange programs. The letter was signed by 45 additional Members of Congress.
On February 12, the State Department implemented a temporary pause on program payments with no advanced notice to grant recipient organizations, like the U.S. Fulbright Program. The 15-day pause ended on February 27— yet organizations still cannot access their funds.
“Without a release of funding and clearly defined process, American citizens run the risk of being stranded overseas with no resources to support their stipends, housing, or logistics to bring them home,” the lawmakers wrote.
Currently, at least 3,500 American students and professionals are studying or working under Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) programs — U.S. citizens who cannot access federal support they were guaranteed before they pursued opportunities abroad. The State Department has also furloughed or laid off more than 700 Americans working for these programs, further exacerbating concern.
“The Department of State’s exchange programs are an important component of U.S diplomacy, more than 40 foreign participants have gone on to hold important leadership positions, including former and current heads of state or government. These exchange programs strengthen bilateral relationships, enhance national security and alliances, and make America stronger,” the lawmakers continued.
Representatives Dean and Pingree asked Secretary Rubio’s response to questions on the Department’s review process and the future of its exchange programs.
Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.
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