CCDBG is the primary federal funding stream for child care in the United States. Each state determines how the funds will be used within broad federal parameters. CCDBG provides funds for subsidies and for quality investments. More »
Congress does not currently require background checks to care for children in licensed child care or in care subsidized with federal funds. State policies vary greatly. More »
The budget resolution is an internal Congressional document giving Committees guidance with regard to how much spending they can allocate. It's analogous to a blueprint, which essentially sets Congressional spending priorities. The budget reconciliation bill is generally used to "reconcile" savings to comply with the budget resolution. Appropriations bills are measures that appropriate (or allocate) funding for each federal government program. For more background on the federal budget or appropriations process, click here.
TANF assists primarily single parents with young children to enter the workforce and become self-sufficient. The program is meant to provide a temporary safety-net for poor families. Child care is a critical link between work and welfare.
Head Start was last reauthorized in 2007. Nearly 1 million low income children participate in the program, helping them to start school ready to learn. Much more than preschool, Head Start offers health, nutrition, screening for developmental delays and a variety of social services. Child care is critical for many Head Start parents and children.
The Higher Education Act was reauthorized in 2008. The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) became P.L. 110-315 and made significant changes to current law.
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) provides federal funds for nutritious meals and snacks for children in child care centers, family child care homes, and after-school programs. The government reimburses child care providers at a higher rate for low income children. Nutritious meals are important for healthy child development.