The current Continuing Resolution (CR) will only keep the government funded through April 28, so when Congress returns to DC next week, we can expect appropriations to be at the top of their to-do list. First, Congress will need to fund the remainder of FY 2017 to avoid a shutdown; then, they can get started on FY 2018 funding.
So far, all we’ve seen from President Trump is the “skinny budget” (PDF) he released in March. This budget provided a partial overview of what the President would like to see. While we know there has been criticism on both sides of the aisle, we also know that Congress intends to make major cuts, many that will likely hit programs and departments that are important to the disability community. Because of this, we need to fight against any cuts that will negatively impact the Independent Living Program, and we need to act now.
Back in March, we sent an alert asking you to contact your members of Congress and invite them to visit your CIL. Now it’s more important than ever that we keep the pressure on Congress! We know that there are a lot of issues facing our community right now, and there is a lot at stake. That said, IL funding is critical, and cuts to the IL program would be detrimental to CILs around the country. We MUST work to ensure that President Trump’s proposed cuts are not implemented, and that the Independent Living Program does not see any future cuts.
Please continue talking with your members of Congress. Please continue trying to get them to visit your CIL. Keep setting up meetings, calling, emailing, and doing whatever you can to make sure that your Senators and Representatives know how important Independent Living is to their constituents with disabilities. Only by seeing the work that the IL community is doing every day and by hearing directly from their constituents will they understand the vital need for funding and the incredible value of the IL program!
