Why it Matters

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools is doubling down on in-house lobbying as Congress considers key charter legislation. This organization spent $66,175 in Q2 2025 utilizing internal staff rather than external firms.

By the Numbers

Current Quarter: $66,175 in internal lobbying expenses for Q2 2025

Historical spending: Over $5.3 million across 72 filings since 2013

Lobbying team: Two in-house advocates

Previous external firms used: Eight different lobbying firms including Red Maple Consulting ($1.18 million) and Penn Hill Group ($890,000)

Broader Context

Charter schools serve nearly 4 million students but receive less than 0.1% of Education Department funding. The Trump Administration has signaled support for expanding charter funding and school choice tax credits. Secretary Linda McMahon testified that the Administration will “return authority to states, parents, and educators.” Congress is considering the FY 2026 appropriations cycle with potential funding increases.

The Agenda

The National Alliance is targeting four specific bills:

  • HR 3453 and S. 1795 – The Empower Charter School Educators to Lead Act would allow states to use Charter Schools Program grants for educator-led planning. The House Education Committee already reported the bill favorably.
  • S. 1723 – The Equitable Access to School Facilities Act would create $100 million annually for charter facilities aid programs. A House companion is in development.

Broader focus areas include Budget/Appropriations and Education policy.

Competitive Landscape

Multiple charter organizations are lobbying on similar issues. The National Association of Charter School Authorizers focuses on oversight and authorization. The KIPP Foundation consistently lobbies for Charter Schools Program funding. Success Academy advocates for charter tax credits.

Education finance groups like the Low Income Investment Fund lobby on charter facilities financing and tax credits.

Between The Lines

Congressional activity shows mixed signals. The House Appropriations Committee voted to increase Charter Schools Program funding to $500 million for FY2026, a $60 million boost.

However, Democratic opposition remains strong. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici delivered extensive critiques about charter school segregation. Rep. Alma Adams cautioned that H.R. 3453 lacks oversight safeguards.

The House Education Subcommittee held hearings on charter schools “closing gaps and opening doors.” A bipartisan Senate resolution celebrating National Charter Schools Week passed unanimously.

The Bottom Line

The National Alliance is betting on in-house expertise at a favorable political moment. With Administration support and some bipartisan momentum, incremental funding increases appear achievable. But ongoing concerns about accountability and equity could limit broader expansion efforts.

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