Trump Proposes Head Start Deregulation to Expand Local Control and Slots

The Trump administration unveiled a proposed HHS rule to roll back Head Start regulations, giving local programs more flexibility by aligning standards with state laws for factors like class size, staff ratios, background checks, and transportation. The plan would make deviations from current requirements optional, cap administrative spending at 5%, and add nutrition and physical activity rules aligned with federal guidelines. Officials say the changes would preserve statutory requirements, expand Head Start slots by up to 236,000 and save about $2.2 billion, while Democrats warn the deregulation could lead to larger class sizes and reduced services for low-income children. The proposal is open for public comment for 60 days.