Case for Action Now: Strategic Planning to Offset the Anticipated Program Cuts of the Reagan Administration

摘要

Federally supported human service programs are analyzed for their current legislative and budget status, political adherence to Reagan administration policy, and vulnerability to Reagan's program cuts. The proposed elimination of many categorical grants in favor of expanded block grants is also evaluated. The following programs are now highly vulnerable under the Reagan administration's proposed budget cuts: the Comprehensive Employment Training Act (CETA) programs (need reauthorization), the Food Stamp program (current appropriation insufficient to cover this fiscal year), the School Breakfast and Lunch program (because of their relationship to the Food Stamp program), health planning (on continuing budget resolution), Community Health Centers (on continuing budget resolution), followthrough (needs reauthorization), mental health services, and Section 8 and Section 312 housing programs (administration bias against categorical assistance). Certain programs are less vulnerable either because their funding has already been advanced or secured, constituent support is strong (services for senior citizens and Head Start), or they are already funded by block grants (community development and title XX social services). Also, Federal support for health and nutrition programs for targeted groups of women, infants, and children appear in less jeopardy. Fact sheets on each of these programs contain a brief description of their services and clients, appropriations, vulnerabilities to Reagan's policies, and possible advocates.