Governor Richardson's Pre-K Bill Passes
First Committee

(Santa Fe, NM)--Governor Bill Richardson's Pre-Kindergarten bill passed its first committee today. The bill, sponsored by Representative Rick Miera, passed after several business leaders, early childhood educators and clergy testified in support of extending opportunities to thousands of New Mexico families who want access to pre-kindergarten for their 4 year-olds. House Bill 337 now heads to the House Education committee, which is chaired by Representative Rick Miera.

The following groups testified in support of the bill:

- Bishop Michael Sheehan’s office,
- The University Women’s Association,
- The Roswell Independent School District
- The New Mexico Childcare Association, and
- The New Mexico Association for the Education of Young Children.
- Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
- Association of Commerce & Industry

The most charming supporters were the small children sporting orange t-shirts, which read, “pre-k now.”

For more information, contact Jennifer Chavez, Public Information Officer, at (505) 476-0393.