STATEMENT: FFYF Statement on Proposed FY25 Funding Levels for Child Care and Early Learning Programs

WASHINGTON – This morning, the House Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies held a markup on proposed funding levels for child care and early learning programs for FY2025. 

Among other things, their plan would increase funding levels for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), the program that provides the foundation to child care programs in all 50 states and Early Head Start and Head Start programs which operate in every congressional district. Details include:

• Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG): $8.8 billion – a $25 million increase over fiscal year 2024
• Head Start and Early Head Start: $12.3 billion, a $25 million increase over fiscal year 2024
• Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5): $250 million, a $65 million cut from fiscal year 2024

In response, First Five Years Fund Executive Director Sarah Rittling released the following statement: 

“Federal early learning programs ensure millions of parents can go to work every day while knowing their child is in a nurturing, safe environment that is helping set them on a path to success. The funding dedicated to these federal programs is integral to ensuring they are meeting their goals and ultimately supporting families.

“We appreciate the Committee’s efforts to increase funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) and Head Start amidst challenging fiscal conditions. This support is crucial to allowing states and programs to assist families in securing affordable child care, ensuring children receive safe, high-quality early education at an affordable price.

“We also urge both chambers to continue to prioritize the Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5) program. This initiative has enhanced state infrastructures to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of child care and early learning services. 

“The time is right to continue to build on the momentum of previous funding cycles with increased support for working families.

“As Congress continues to navigate the appropriations process, we look forward to collaborating with both chambers to prioritize and enhance funding for these foundational programs.”