Governor Branstad's plan for preschool was released in HSB 145 today. The subcommittee is Forristall (Chair), L. Miller, Lofgren, Mascher and Willems. 

Every Child Counts is still analyzing the bill and will send out a summary soon.

More preschool news - yesterday the House concurred with HF 45.  If you remember, this bill started in the House and repealed the Four Year Old Preschool Program.  The Senate restored the program - the bill was sent back to the House and the House concurred.  Now we have the release of the Governor's bill.  Remember this new bill has to go through both Chambers and the Senate Democrats have strongly and consistently voiced their support for the current Four Year Old Preschool Program.  The House can still pass the Governor's version of the bill but the Senate would have to take it up.

If the bill isn't take up by both Houses, we still have the issue of funding the current Four Year Old Preschool program. Speculation is that the Republicans won't fund or adequately fund the current Preschool Program. This means that there may have to be some compromise(s) between the House Republicans, Senate Democrats and the Governor.

Even though HF 45 passed and preschool is restored, our work is far from done. You still need to contact your legislator and express your support for the Four Year Old Preschool Program.

I will do my best to keep you informed of what is next.

Keep up the good work!! It is a pleasure advocating with all of you for Iowa's children and their families!

Best ~

Sheila