With a temporary agreement reached to reopen shuttered parts of the government through February 15th, the House and Senate returned to work today to complete the unfinished Appropriations for FY 2019, including for programs of the Department of Homeland Security.
The Department of Homeland Security spending bill funds two of our key priorities: FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program and Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Both these programs are at risk of significant funding cuts this year.
The Senate’s draft Homeland Security spending bill includes only $35 million for FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (a $25 million cut below the $60 million approved by Congress in FY 2018). Similarly, the Senate draft includes only $100 million for FEMA’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program (a $20 million cut below the $120 million approved by Congress in FY 2018). By contrast, the House Appropriations Committee approved a draft Homeland Security spending bill that includes flat funding of both programs at $60 million and $120 million, respectively. We support the House provisions and oppose the Senate provisions.
At this critical time in the appropriations process, it is important that your Congressional delegation and Senators hear from you in opposition to the proposed Senate cuts to NSGP and EFSP. Please take immediate action. Click here for a sample letter for your use.
