FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 20, 2003

CONTACT: Brendan Daly 202-225-0100

Republicans Oppose Programs That Help Latino Children in Head Start

Washington, D.C. - This week, House Republicans in the Education and Workforce Committee defeated legislation to improve the Head Start program by blocking a proposal offered by Representatives Raúl Grijalva and Rubén Hinojosa that would have helped funding for Latino children, specifically, children of migrant workers.

The Migrant Seasonal Head Start Amendment (MSHS) offered by Congressmen Grijalva and Hinojosa would provide an additional $130 million dollars in funding for Head Start to help children of Migrant and Seasonal farm working families by increasing the necessary funds so these programs can survive.

"Every child deserves to have a fair chance at the American Dream. Head Start is one way to accomplish this goal," said Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi. "I am disappointed that the committee failed to adopt a real solution that would address the pressing needs of farm-working families. It is hypocritical for the President to claim that no child should be left behind while his party continues to cut critical resources for migrant children."

Only 19 percent of eligible children of migrant and seasonal farm working families are served, while nationally, 60 percent of children eligible for regional head start are served. "This is another empty promise by Republicans. This leaves the further availability of head start to children of Migrant and Seasonal farm working families up to chance. Our children cannot afford to take this chance," said Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz.)

"Once again, Republicans have shown their true colors. They are more concerned about tax cuts for the rich than helping those children from migrant farm-working families, " said Rep. Pelosi.

Additionally, the Republicans in the Education and Workforce Committee also voted to turn Head Start funding into a block grant for states. Turning Head Start funding into block grants would mean that states would have no obligation to show that they would improve the quality of Head Start programs.

"Whether it's leaving more than 4 million Latino children out of the Child Tax Credit, or drastically cutting funding for migrant farm working parents, Republicans have shown where their priorities are."

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi