Luna Bill Targets Federal Funds for Treasure Coast Schools Offering Gender Counseling

A Republican congresswoman from Florida's west coast has introduced legislation that could cost Treasure Coast school districts federal funding if they offer gender identity counseling, therapy, or guidance to students under 18.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican representing Florida's 13th Congressional District, introduced HR 7981 in the 119th Congress. The bill would amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 — the primary federal law governing K-12 public school funding — to prohibit funds authorized under that act from flowing to public schools that provide counseling, therapy, or guidance related to gender identity to minors. The House Committee on Education and Workforce received the referral on March 18.

Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River county school districts each receive millions of dollars annually under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, funding programs ranging from Title I support for low-income students to teacher training and academic intervention. A loss of those dollars could affect staffing, instructional programs, and student services across the Treasure Coast.

Luna does not represent the Treasure Coast. Florida's 13th District covers parts of the Tampa Bay area. However, federal education legislation applies uniformly to all public school districts nationwide, meaning local districts would be subject to any restrictions enacted into law.

The bill has been referred to committee and has not yet received a hearing date. Legislation referred to committee frequently does not advance to a floor vote, though companion legislation or budget riders can achieve similar policy goals through other mechanisms.

Officials from Martin County School District, St. Lucie Public Schools, and Indian River County School District had not issued public statements on the bill as of publication.

The full text of HR 7981 is available through public congressional records. Residents who wish to contact their federal representatives about the legislation can reach Florida's Treasure Coast congressional offices through the U.S. House of Representatives directory at house.gov.

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