Reading Room Document
Request for analysis of the Quie Amendment (Federal Educational Block Grants to the States)
The document is a request for analysis of the Quie Amendment, which proposes federal block grants to states for educational programs. The document discusses the "by-pass" mechanism in the amendment, which allows for federal intervention in cases where state agencies are unable to provide specified educational services. The conclusion reached is that the "by-pass" provision does not present any serious constitutional problems, and there are supporting legislative precedents. The document also addresses the issue of federal funds not being commingled with state funds and the potential impact on state constitutions prohibiting the use of public funds for sectarian schools. The questions presented for review include the constitutional implications of the "by-pass" mechanism and the commingling of federal and state funds for educational purposes.
The OLC's Opinions
Opinions published by the OLC, including those released in response to our FOIA lawsuit