Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Secretary Kennedy Protect Head Start Programs for New Mexico Children

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy urging him to withdraw a proposed rule to cut Head Start funding, which would take away educational opportunities from New Mexico children. The “Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs,” rule would rescind over 1,400 regulations for Head Start. Educators warn that this rule would cut services, reduce program quality, and lead to large variations between states, leaving some children with less resources than others.

“Head Start is a critical lifeline for over 7,000 hardworking families in New Mexico,” said Vasquez. “But instead of working with parents and communities to make early childhood education and childcare more affordable and accessible, the Administration has spent two years attacking Head Start and taking money away from children. I’m calling on Secretary Kennedy to rescind this threat — our kids deserve better.”

“While Head Start needs improvements and additional investments, staffing, and capacity, the proposed rule does not effectively address these needs. Instead, it risks gutting the program and sowing chaos across the country at a time when hardworking families are struggling more than ever to cover the cost of childcare,” wrote Vasquez in the letter. “Your agency should be working hand-in-hand with Head Start providers and communities to improve the program, not causing additional concern, chaos, and confusion.” 

You can read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Vasquez has consistently fought to secure funding for Head Start programs:

• Visiting Isleta Pueblo Head Start to discuss the importance of early childhood education, language and cultural preservation, and securing a key report on effective ways to improve Tribal Head Start programs.
• Sending a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services urging action to address the severe impacts of recent federal funding interruptions and the government shutdown risks on Head Start programs in New Mexico and across the country.
• Pushing for a $14 billion investment dedicated to Head Start in the Fiscal Year 2027 government funding bill to strengthen early childhood education and expand access for families nationwide.

###