H.R.2845 - Preparing and Resourcing Our Student Parents and Early Childhood Teachers Act; PROSPECT Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2845, also known as the PROSPECT Act, aims to establish competitive federal grants to empower community colleges and minority-serving institutions (MSIs) to become incubators for infant and toddler child care talent, training, and access on their campuses and in their communities. The bill authorizes $9 billion in appropriations from 2026 through 2030 for this purpose. It also includes provisions related to the Child Care and Development Block Grant program and outreach regarding dependent care allowances for federal student aid.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the PROSPECT Act would increase access to affordable, high-quality child care for student parents at community colleges and MSIs. It would also expand and diversify the pipeline of early childhood educators, particularly in underserved communities. The bill could also lead to increased college completion rates for student parents and a stronger early childhood education workforce.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to affordable child care for student parents.
- Expanded and diversified early childhood educator workforce.
- Improved college completion rates for student parents.
- Enhanced quality of early childhood education programs.
- Support for low-income families and communities of color.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient allocation of grant funds.
- Increased federal spending and potential for budget deficits.
- Possible administrative burdens for community colleges and MSIs.
- Risk of fraud or misuse of grant funds.
- Potential for unintended consequences related to workforce development.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By supporting child care and education, the bill aims to improve the lives of families and communities. The bill also addresses social equity concerns, potentially aligning with the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment by supporting vulnerable populations and reducing inequality.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).