STATEMENT: FFYF Executive Director Sarah Rittling on House Markup of FY26 Funding Levels for Child Care and Early Learning Programs

On September 2, 2025 the House Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee marked up its FY2026 funding bill, including federal funding  for child care and early learning programs. The House proposal would provide level funding for Head Start and the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) and eliminate funding for the Preschool Development Grants Birth through Five (PDG B-5). The House Appropriators request aligns with the White House proposed budget announced in May, but falls short of the Senate Appropriations Committee’s proposal. 

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

“Families across the country are counting on Congress to prioritize child care and early learning. “We appreciate that the House Labor-H Appropriations Committee’s FY2026 proposal maintains funding for Head Start and the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). At the same time, we are concerned by the elimination of the Preschool Development Grants Birth through Five (PDG B-5).

“Supporting programs that help families find reliable, affordable care for their little ones is both pro-work and pro-family. For most parents, especially those with young kids, having that kind of support is essential. Programs like Head Start and the Child Care and Development Block Grant focus on helping lower-income families in every Congressional district. When Congress invests in these kinds of resources, it makes it easier for parents to work, gives kids a chance to learn and thrive, and helps build a stronger economy for everyone.” 

“The Senate’s proposal recognizes this reality, prioritizing CCDBG and Head Start while continuing support for PDG B-5, giving more families access to affordable care and more children the chance to grow and thrive.

“Many parents, children, and communities continue to face significant challenges, highlighting the ongoing need for robust support of early learning programs. We urge the House to follow the Senate’s lead and stand with working families. Now is the time to invest in these programs and give parents the support  they need to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive.”

House Proposal 

The House Appropriations Committee Labor-HHS spending number includes: 

• Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG): Level funding at $8.746 billion;
• Head Start: Level funding at $12.272 billion;
•  Preschool Development Grants Birth through Five (PDG B-5): Eliminated.

Senate Proposal 

The Senate Appropriations Committee includes a $170 million increase for early learning programs over FY2025. That sets aside: 

• CCDBG: $8.83 billion – an $85 million increase over fiscal year 2025. 
• Head Start: $12.36 billion, an $85 million increase over fiscal year 2025. 
• PDG B-5: $315 million, level with FY25.