With a March 4th deadline looming to continue funding the federal government for the 2011 fiscal year, Republicans in Congress have released a revised plan of $32 billion in cuts. Given that there are but seven months left to the fiscal year, implementation of such a plan would mean a overall cut of $74 billion to the President's original 2011 budget request.
If adopted, such a plan wouild mean drastic cuts in a variety of programs of importance to communities such as Community Development Block Grants.
The proposal sets up some very interesting dynamics within the House Republican caucus and those who have sought deeper cuts. Recall that the "Republican Study Committee" has put forth a plan for even deeper cuts. Add to that the fact that no matter what passes the Republican controlled House is dead on arrival in the Democratic Senate which could lead to lengthy negotiations beyond the March 4th deadline.
If that were to occur and a short-term resolution not approved, all non-essential functions of the government will cease.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
c701423c-d5de-4378-aaf2-1a3236539f64|0|.0
