Head Start Expansion and Improvement Act of 2026

This legislation seeks to substantially expand and improve the Head Start program by increasing its financial authorization and broadening eligibility criteria. It redefines "public assistance" to include programs like SNAP, WIC, and SCHIP, making more families automatically eligible for Head Start services. Furthermore, the bill raises the family income threshold for eligibility from 100 percent to 138 percent of the poverty line, aiming to serve a greater number of children and families.

To support these expansions, the bill authorizes a significant increase in appropriations for the Head Start Act, allocating $36 billion annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2032. It also establishes a new grant program for Head Start agencies to construct or improve facilities, prioritizing those built before 1970 or with hazardous conditions, with an authorization of $1 billion annually. To address workforce needs, the bill creates a loan forgiveness program for Head Start and Early Head Start childcare workers who complete three years of service and establishes a grant program to supplement employee salaries, considering local compensation gaps and cost of living.