Block+ Oppose HHS Proposed Rule to Deregulate Head Start

I’m writing to urge you to block the HHS proposed rule that would gut federal standards for the successful Head Start program. The proposed changes do damage in many ways: This rule would eliminate class size limits, teacher-child ratios, and curriculum requirements — the very guardrails that ensure 700,000 low-income children receive consistent, quality care. Worse, it would remove the prohibition on corporal punishment and mandate English-only instruction. That's not deregulation. It’s abandonment, and will only lead to abuse. The proposed 5% administrative cost cap would devastate providers already operating on thin margins. Right now, only 3.7% of Head Start grantees spend less than 5% on administrative costs — meaning the vast majority would be forced to cut staff or services to comply. Sen. Patty Murray put it plainly: this rule change gives programs a green light to turn away children with disabilities! Head Start has delivered mental health supports, health screenings, and school readiness to vulnerable families for 61 years. Stripping federal standards doesn't empower local communities — it just removes accountability for what happens to kids inside those classrooms. The current head of the HHS is a fringe madman, who needs mental health assistance himself. Block this change. Get allies to sue the HHS if Legislation can’t do it quickly enough. Preserve Head Start. It’s basic human rights and serves a need. Thank you.