Some of the high-level changes proposed in the NPRM are:

• Capping Administrative costs at 5% of total approved program costs, down from 15%;
• Parent committees would be optional instead of required;
• Programs would no longer be able to require degrees or credits that are deemed not necessary for a particular position;
• Removing regulations and requirements around serving children with disabilities and families experiencing homelessness;
• Removing federal rules on staff-to-child ratios and instead relying on states to set these standards;
• Adding a requirement that all instruction must happen in English;
• Removing requirements that Head Start programs provide comprehensive health services and screenings.

For a more comprehensive overview of regulatory changes and additions, we recommend reading the National Head Start Association’s NPRM summary found here. 

Maryland Family Network, in step with many of our state and federal partners, believes that the NPRM should be rescinded in full. Fewer regulations do not equate to cost savings or better results.

One way that you can help is by contacting your members of Congress and asking them to voice their opposition to the proposed rule. Congress can use the tools they have to prevent ACF from moving forward. Head Start needs all its champions to assemble and publicly push to protect Head Start!