Article Summary –
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed a bill to ensure continued funding for the state’s Pre-K Counts program, even if federal Head Start funding is cut, in response to the Trump administration’s threats to eliminate the program’s funding. H.B. 1505, championed by Democratic state Rep. Liz Hanbidge, allows state Pre-K Counts grants to be extended to all intermediate units regardless of Head Start affiliation to avoid the potential loss of services for up to 2,500 children in Pennsylvania. Despite the temporary restoration of Head Start funding following legal challenges, uncertainty remains due to administrative disruptions, funding freezes, and potential job cuts affecting the program’s reliability and the families it serves.
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed a bill on July 7 ensuring continued funding for the state’s Pre-K Counts program, maintaining support even if federal Head Start funding is removed.
Trump’s administration has recently targeted Head Start. Although the current 2025-2026 fiscal year budget supports this federal child care program, earlier proposals, like one eliminating funding entirely, have caused disruptions (source). A previous funding freeze and cuts to federal Head Start offices further threatened the program.
H.B. 1505, introduced by Democrat Rep. Liz Hanbidge, allows state Pre-K Counts grants for Pennsylvania’s intermediate units, aiding regional educational entities regardless of federal Head Start operations. Hanbidge stated, “This bill ensures our children receive uninterrupted, quality early education” source. Without it, roughly 2,500 Pennsylvania children could miss Pre-K Counts access.
The bill passed with a 202-1 vote, with Republican Rep. Scott Barger dissenting. It moves next to the Pennsylvania Senate.
In January, the Trump administration temporarily halted federal spending, affecting Head Start programs. Under pressure from 23 state attorneys general who sued, the freeze was revoked. However, a federal judge and the U.S. Court of Appeals upheld an order blocking the freeze source.
Despite funding restoration, uncertainty lingers. Kara McFalls, from the Pennsylvania Head Start Association, voiced concerns over program reliability and affordability for working families source. Head Start offers more than child care; it supports families with job training and health services.
McFalls highlighted the impact of Trump administration layoffs on Pennsylvania Head Start programs, including unexpected reassignments of liaisons due to Department of Health and Human Services staff cuts.
The Supreme Court recently overruled a block on federal layoffs, allowing the Trump administration to proceed with workforce reductions, potentially affecting Head Start personnel.
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