9/27/2005
This week, the Republican Study Committee (made up of 90 conservative Republicans) has released "Operation Offset"?, which is a detailed plan of how the RSC recommends the federal government offset the expense of the Katrina Relief by eliminating or cutting over 100 federal programs. While it is important to note that the TRIO programs and GEAR UP are not included on this list, the Council is concerned by many of the recommendations included in the report.
To find a copy of the report, which would provide a 10-year savings total of over $500 million please go to the following link:
http://johnshadegg.house.gov/rsc/RSC_Budget_Options_2005.doc
As evident by this proposal, education programs will continue to be on the cutting board as the deficit rises. This is why it is so important that we continue to educate every Member of Congress on the importance of the TRIO programs in their community. Because of the extensive outreach and work done by you in the field, we were not included for elimination in the RSC's plan. This does not mean, however, that we will not face elimination in February when President Bush releases his FY 2007 budget.
This year we have had great success in educating both Democrats and Republicans on why these programs benefit their district. Please see the following link for the most current list of Members who have signed on to the Cole/Payne letter:
http://www.coenet.us/PayneCole05/Payne_Cole2005.doc
If a Member in your area has not signed on to the letter, please call Jamie Baxter with the Council at 202-347-7430 to set up a time to talk with me to discuss a strategy for getting him or her to sign this important letter and support TRIO.
Thanks again for all of your continued efforts! I appreciate it,
Heather