Start Strong PA & Pre-K for PA Condemn Disproportionate Federal Freeze on Child Care Funds
Harrisburg, PA (January 14, 2026) – In response to the federal administration’s decision to freeze Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) payments in 5 states, the Start Strong PA and Pre-K for PA campaigns issue the following statement:
The recent decision to freeze access to Child Care and Development Fund, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Social Services Block Grant funds for California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York is a disproportionate and harmful reaction to alleged fraud confined to specific providers in Minnesota. Let us be clear: fraud within public systems is unacceptable and must be addressed with precision. However, we must also be clear that states have regular audits of these funds, many systems like Pennsylvania’s have robust program integrity measures, and federal oversight mechanisms are already in place to ensure accountability.