Congresswoman King-Hinds Confirms Release of Withheld Federal Education Funds for CNMI Public Schools

Washington – Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds confirmed today that the U.S. Department of Education has released the previously withheld portion of the Consolidated Grant funding for the CNMI Public School System, resolving a month-long delay that had placed critical education programs under significant strain.

 In early July, the U.S. Department of Education notified PSS that nearly 24 percent of its Consolidated Grant—approximately $4.5 million—would be withheld pending internal review, triggering widespread uncertainty about the status of federally supported programs across all 20 public schools in the Commonwealth. 

“From the moment we learned about the delay, our office worked to clarify the issue and press for resolution,” said Congresswoman King-Hinds. “We maintained consistent contact with the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget, made clear the consequences of this hold for our schools, and joined with congressional colleagues to ensure our territories were not left behind.”

 While early reports described the hold as a cut, King-Hinds quickly clarified that the $4.5 million was not eliminated but temporarily withheld as part of a nationwide review affecting all 50 states and U.S. territories. Her office sent formal correspondence urging immediate review and release of the funds, citing the CNMI’s unique challenges and reliance on federal education support. 

On Friday, July 25, the White House announced that it would release the full $5.5 billion in withheld education funds nationwide. The Department of Education confirmed that disbursements to states and territories would begin this week, including the release of funds owed to the CNMI. “This is a relief for our students, teachers, and families” said King-Hinds. “Our public school system needs consistency, not disruption. I commend PSS leadership for staying steady during a time of uncertainty, advocating clearly for the needs of our students and ensuring that programs continued without interruption.”

 Congresswoman King-Hinds reiterated that while this outcome is welcome, the episode highlights the need for more transparency in the federal grants process and better safeguards for remote and insular communities that depend heavily on these funds. 

“We’ll continue to stay engaged, and we’ll keep pressing for long-term policies that bring predictability and fairness to the territories,” she said. “Our students deserve no less.