American Rescue Plan passes Senate, contains billions in support for afterschool and summer learning

The U.S. Senate joined the House of Representatives in passing the American Rescue Plan (ARP) on March 6. In all, the Senate bill could make $8.45 billion available at the state level for afterschool and summer programs, across all states; and $21.9 billion at the local level for afterschool and summer. To get a sense of the tremendous impact this funding could make, consider that $8.45 billion would provide programming for almost 9 million students in need.

Senate approved the measure by a vote of 50-49. The bill was modified from the House-passed version but still provides significant directed funding for afterschool and summer learning programs that support student success. The new version of the bill, which the Senate passed through the budget reconciliation process, now goes back to the House for final approval. The House is expected to pass it early next week. President Biden is then expected to quickly sign it into law.

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