Washington, D.C. – Today CAP President and CEO Neera Tanden released the following reaction to the news that President Barack Obama’s budget proposal will make free universal pre-kindergarten education available nationwide, paid for by raising taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products:
The president’s new preschool and early childhood plan makes a bold investment in our country’s children. This investment won’t add a dime to the deficit and it will be fully paid for by a tax on sales of cigarettes and other harmful tobacco products, which will make America healthier. Decades of research demonstrate that preschool is absolutely critical for building lifelong skills, and that the returns from early childhood investments dwarf the costs. Countries like China and India understand this and are investing huge amounts in preschool programs. The president’s plan is critical for ensuring that our kids are prepared to compete in this global race.
To speak with a CAP expert on this topic, contact Katie Peters at [email protected] or 202.741.6285.
Related resource: Investing in our Children: A Plan to Expand Access to Preschool and Child Care
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