Cuts Proposed for Community, Rural, and Economic Development Programs

President Trump’s proposed budget will eliminate several programs that provide grants for local economic development projects. These budget cuts are particularly threatening to Main Street communities and underserved communities in urban and suburban areas, as they help fund important community efforts that support small towns, historic buildings, and local businesses. Without funding, many projects that create jobs, restore buildings, and grow our economy could disappear. Unlike the HPF, these programs are funded by taxpayers and are ways that we collectively reinvest in our communities.

Program cuts would affect:

·  Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): Supports local planning, small business, facade improvement, and infrastructure projects. The president’s budget proposes to eliminate CDBG entirely. 

·  USDA Rural Development (RD): Funds rural broadband, community facilities, and entrepreneurial support. The President’s budget proposes to eliminate the existing $700+ million for RD programs. 

·  Economic Development Administration (EDA): Provides grants for downtown revitalization, disaster recovery, and technical assistance. The President’s budget proposes to eliminate the EDA. 

 Reach Out to Congress 

• Find Your Members of Congress

  Use this link to look up who represents you in the U.S. House and Senate.

• Call Their D.C. Office

  Refer to our info sheet for their office number in Washington, DC. Ask to speak with the staffer who works on budget or appropriations.

• Introduce Yourself

  Say your name, where you're from, and the name of your organization if you have one. Use your organization’s mission statement or a short “elevator pitch” to describe what you do.

• Share Your Concern

  Say you’re worried about the President’s proposed budget cuts. Ask them to keep funding for community and economic development programs.

  
  

• Tell a Local Story

  Share how federal support has helped your community. A real story from your town or city is powerful.

• Say Thank You

  Thank the staffer for their time and their service.

Keep the Momentum Going - Share Your Story More Widely

• Post your story on your website or social media.

• Send it directly to your Members of Congress or tag them in your social media post.