NHSA to HHS: Lack of Clarity on IFC is Destabilizing

On August 16, 2022, NHSA wrote to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra to follow up July 29, 2022 letter on the Head Start Interim Final Rule with Comments (IFC) regarding COVID-19 vaccines and masking.

As Head Start programs nationwide prepare for the new school year, the ambiguity and lack of clarity is destabilizing. From the letter:

Head Start programs remain subject to conflicting mandates imposed by federal, state, and local governments, as well as the courts. In light of the new CDC guidance, which adds yet another layer of confusion, it is now even more imperative for Head Start programs to have clarity as they head back to school.

NHSA again urges the Administration to restore the traditional role of local program autonomy in line with the comments we submitted on December 27, 2021. Copies of this letter were sent to: the White House; the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions; and the Chair and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education & Labor.