Events and Advocacy

Supporting the development and growth of statewide policies that impact after school is a central part of the work of the Connecticut After School Network. To ensure high-quality programs and develop sustainable streams of local, state, and federal funding, we must inform and influence the decision-makers who can advance the policy agenda for after school and positive youth development.

The following resources in this section of the web site will help you learn more about:

• How to take action
• Who are the key state and local policymakers
• National research/commentary on after school policy
• Legislative actions

Update on FY08 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill

Veto Override Fails in the House of Representatives
On November 15, 2007, the House of Representatives took up the vote to override President Bush’s veto of the Fiscal Year 2008 Labor, Heath and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill – the bill that included a $100 million increase for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program. Unfortunately they fell two votes short of overriding the veto. The final vote tally was 277-141, with 226 Democrats and 51 Republicans voting to override the veto. Fifteen members of Congress did not vote. Click here to see how your Representative voted – and be sure to thank them if they voted to override.

Thank you to all who took the time to contact their representatives. There will now be further negotiations to come up with a smaller spending bill and the Network will keep you updated on the next opportunity for advocates to weigh in.

For the latest information on after school policy, visit www.afterschoolalliance.org/policy_news.cfm.