Edward G. Rendell's proposed budget for 2006-2007, Philadelphia Citizens for Children and Youth executive director Shelly Yanoff hailed the spending plan as "great for the children of the Commonwealth - and also a great move to enhance Pennsylvania's future."
Pennsylvania will become the second state in the nation to offer health insurance to all children by expanding the CHIP program to 15,000 additional boys and girls, including those whose parents are working but uninsured, or unable to afford health insurance premiums.
The proposed budget includes a 5 percent increase in basic education spending and increases Accountability Block Grants from $200 to $250 million, with $10 million dollars allocated for science and technology enrichment.
The Rendell spending plan significantly increases spending on early childhood education.
It includes funding for an additional 17,000 child care slots and to improve program quality to meet high standards.
The Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program will increase from $30 to $45 million.
PCCY Founded in 1980, Philadelphia Citizens for Children and Youth (PCCY) is the leading advocacy and public policy organization focused on improving the lives and life chances of children in the Philadelphia region.
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