Grand Canyon Times

Tom Horne, former Arizona Attorney General, has expressed concern over the potential financial risks posed by current Attorney General Kris Mayes' stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Horne stated that during his tenure, he adhered strictly to legal requirements, emphasizing the critical role of the Arizona Department of Education in administering education funds in compliance with the law.

Horne highlighted the U.S. Department of Education's mandate that his department certify the lawful use of federal funds by public districts and charters. "The U.S. Department of Education has issued guidance that requires my department to certify that all public districts and charters that take federal money use those funds according to that guidance," Horne said. He warned that failing to comply could jeopardize nearly $770 million in federal funding for Arizona's public schools, a scenario he criticized Attorney General Mayes for potentially overlooking.

The concerns were amplified through comments in a letter from Secretary McMahon, emphasizing the legal obligations of educational institutions to comply with federal guidance. Public education agencies received formal notices from the state department on April 3 and April 9, detailing the importance of adhering to this guidance.

Horne underscored the import of certification, saying, "I further acknowledge that compliance with the below and the assurances referred to, as well as this certification, constitute a material condition for the continued receipt of federal financial assistance."

Horne's warning reflects the complex intersection of state compliance with federal requirements and the pivotal role of state officials in safeguarding educational funding.