Congress recently passed a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the federal government through December 11, avoiding a potential government shutdown when the current fiscal year ends September 30. President Trump signed the measure into law on September 2.
The CR continues federal programs at current funding levels while Congress works to complete the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations process. For programs serving children and families, the agreement provides important short-term stability but does not resolve decisions about funding for the rest of the fiscal year. The temporary funding comes as Head Start continues to face significant federal policy uncertainty. Last month, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed changes to Head Start performance standards that could weaken important protections and services for children and families.
At the same time, HHS recently announced more than $225 million in supplemental Head Start funding nationwide. The investment includes more than $89 million to strengthen nutrition services, $88 million for facility improvements, and more than $47 million to help programs address one-time operational needs.
While these investments are welcome, the threat of the proposed rule for Head Start programs, which would roll back critical protection for children and families, looms. Our partners at Start Early created a link tree with resources for advocates to protect Head Start’s future. It Includes analyses and takeaways from the proposed rule, event recordings and trainings, and a multitude of comment templates for individuals wishing to submit written opposition to the proposal, which are due October 6.