HRES-1103-119
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Sponsored by Gwen Moore (D-WI)
What it does
This resolution would express the House of Representatives' support for designating the week of March 2, 2026, as "School Social Work Week." It would formally honor the contributions of school social workers and encourage Americans to observe the week with ceremonies and activities that raise awareness of the role school social workers play in student success. The resolution does not create any new programs, mandate any actions, or appropriate any funds.
Who benefits
School social workers, who receive formal congressional recognition of their profession. Professional associations representing school social workers, such as the School Social Work Association of America, which gain visibility. Students who may benefit indirectly from increased public awareness of school mental health services. Schools and districts that may see increased community support for social work programs.
Who is hurt
No group faces a direct material harm from this resolution. There are no mandates, spending changes, or regulatory effects.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that school social workers are an underrecognized profession addressing a documented and growing student mental health crisis — with nearly 1 in 5 children ages 3–17 diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition and 1 in 5 reporting unmet mental healthcare needs. They contend that formal congressional recognition raises public awareness of a workforce that improves measurable educational outcomes, including reduced absences, lower dropout rates, and fewer discipline referrals, according to cited research.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that symbolic resolutions consume limited congressional floor time and resources without producing any tangible policy change or directing funding to address the student mental health gaps the resolution itself identifies. They contend that if school social workers are as critical as the resolution states, Congress should act through substantive legislation — such as increased funding under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act — rather than a non-binding commemorative measure.
Constitutional context
No significant constitutional issues are raised by this resolution. It is a non-binding expression of congressional sentiment and does not implicate the Spending Clause, the Tenth Amendment, or any other constitutional provision in a legally operative way.
Checks and balances
The House of Representatives expresses a symbolic position; the resolution creates no new executive authority, no enforceable obligations, and no judicial review mechanism.
Historical precedent
Congress regularly passes similar commemorative resolutions recognizing awareness weeks for various professions and causes; these resolutions are a standard form of non-binding congressional expression with no direct policy effect.