Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Floor Speech

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Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Chair, I rise today in support of Head Start programs across the country.

As a father of six, I recognize the importance of early learning and development for our next generation. As a dad, I want to ensure all children have the same opportunities to build a strong foundation for their lives.

That is why I joined my colleague and friend Representative Lawler on his amendment, which we will consider later, to increase the amount of Head Start funding provided in the FY 2024 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies appropriations bill.

Further, I introduced my own amendment, which is included in the en bloc to underscore the importance of the Head Start program.

The importance of these programs, both in my district and across the country, cannot be understated. When our students and families have access to these resources, they are better equipped to put their best foot forward each day, both in and out of the classrooms.

With 22 Head Start programs at almost 500 locations in Arizona, these programs are vital to the well-being of families and children everywhere. In my district alone, 10 percent of the families with children under the age of 5 lives below the poverty level. The tools our students need to succeed go far beyond pencils and notebooks in the classroom. When we invest in our kids, we are investing in a stronger community.

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