[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 48 (Thursday, April 28, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: April 28, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                        HEAD START REAUTHORIZED

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                               speech of

                            HON. PETE GEREN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 26, 1994

  Mr. PETE GEREN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the National Head Start 
Association conducted a survey in the fall of 1990 that highlighted a 
serious problem. Fully one-third of the responding Head Start programs 
indicated that their facilities were in need of extensive repairs, were 
substandard, or should be replaced entirely.
  The legislation that we have before us today goes a long way toward 
allowing the affected Head Start agencies the flexibility they need to 
address their infrastructure problems. More can be done, however. I 
believe that we should allow Head Start agencies to use funds from this 
program for the design and construction of the necessary facilities, 
rather than limiting these agencies to purchasing and renovating older, 
less suitable buildings at greater cost.
  Mr. Speaker, Head Start is a good program that is making a difference 
in the communities in my district and across the country. Allowing Head 
Start agencies the flexibility to choose the option that best fits 
their modernization needs, and budgets, makes fiscal and financial 
sense. The Senate has provided such flexibility in its version of this 
legislation, and I would urge my colleagues who will serve on the 
conference committee to adopt this language.

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