Bill > HR5524

This bill establishes a competitive grant program administered by the Secretary of Education to help states create or expand full-day prekindergarten programs in public schools and public charter schools. Under the program, states can receive federal grants covering up to 80% of program costs, with the requirement that they create universal, voluntary prekindergarten programs for 3- and 4-year-old children. These programs must be full-day (minimum 6 hours), located in public schools, and taught by teachers with qualifications equivalent to other grade-level teachers. States must apply to the Department of Education and can only use the funds to supplement, not replace, existing early childhood education funding. The bill authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2026-2031 and defines key terms like "full-day," "parent," and "public school" by referencing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The goal is to increase access to early childhood education across the United States, particularly for children regardless of family income.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5524/all-info