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Head Start funding shift: block grants to states for pre-K and parent choice.

This Act restructures the Head Start program, replacing direct federal grants with block grants awarded to States and Indian Tribes specifically for prekindergarten education for low-income children. This change grants states greater flexibility, including the option to establish portable voucher systems or Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) for parents to use for private pre-K programs. The goal is to enhance school readiness for children aged 3-5 while increasing state control over fund allocation.
Key points
Management of Head Start funds shifts to States and Indian Tribes via block grants, replacing the previous system of direct federal grants to local providers.
States gain flexibility to create voucher systems or Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), potentially allowing low-income parents to choose private pre-K programs, subject to state law.
Authorizes over $10.6 billion annually for the program through 2034, requiring states to provide a 20% match from non-Federal sources.
Grant recipients must publish detailed online reports on expenditures, the number of children served, and program effectiveness for public transparency.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8723
Sponsor: Rep. Banks, Jim [R-IN-3]
Process start date: 2024-06-13
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Head Start Improvement Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_8723.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-06-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Management of Head Start funds shifts to States and Indian Tribes via block grants, replacing the previous system of direct federal grants to local providers.
  • States gain flexibility to create voucher systems or Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), potentially allowing low-income parents to choose private pre-K programs, subject to state law.
  • Authorizes over $10.6 billion annually for the program through 2034, requiring states to provide a 20% match from non-Federal sources.
  • Grant recipients must publish detailed online reports on expenditures, the number of children served, and program effectiveness for public transparency.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Banks, Jim [R-IN-3].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

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