NLC proposes funding for programs to help stimulate the economy
Federal funding for local initiatives in transportation, housing, public safety and energy conservation will be a top lobbying priority for the Washington-based National League of Cities (NLC) in the upcoming session of Congress. Immigration reform also will be important in 2008, NLC officials say.
Funding programs in those areas will stimulate the nation’s economy, says NLC President Cynthia McCollum. “Given what is currently happening to the economy, the significance of investing in infrastructure and resolving the housing crisis cannot be underestimated,” McCollum said in a statement. “As the local elected leaders of America’s hometowns, we stand ready to do our part, but these issues demand joint problem-solving and a federal partnership.”
Specifically, NLC plans to lobby Congress to fully fund a $2 billion Energy and Environment Block Grant Program, reauthorize the surface transportation infrastructure program and reform the housing finance system in light of the high number of foreclosures seen in recent years.
Go to http://www.nlc.org/articles/articleItems/Vol31No3012108/leadershipmetg.aspx for more information.