News

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) today welcomed President Trump’s signing of the Protecting Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act, legislation that will ensure children overseas who are displaced due to ongoing conflicts receive an education. The bill urges the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to prioritize increased access to education for displaced children, especially girls, who are often the most vulnerable.
 
“I’m proud that my bipartisan bill to ensure all children have access to a quality basic education, whatever their gender and wherever they live, was signed into law. ”Rubio said. “This legislation will help offer a brighter future for millions of displaced children, especially girls, around the world and allow them to fulfill their God-given potential.”
 
“Every day, the number of displaced children across the world continues to grow as violations of human rights and international humanitarian laws persist. Ensuring the wellbeing of children displaced from their homes due to war, famine and persecution is not one nation’s responsibility; it is the world’s responsibility,” said Menendez. “Access to education provides alternatives for joining criminal organization and protection from abduction, human trafficking and early marriage, which disproportionately impact young girls.  The Protecting Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act reinforces our nation’s support for displaced youth around the world, and sheds light on the importance of equal opportunity for girls and boys. I am incredibly proud to have helped write and push this effort across the finish line and thank the President for singing it into law.”
 
U.S. Representatives Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Robin Kelly (D-IL) introduced the companion bill in the House.