1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I urge you not to pass H.R. 1968, the continuing resolution recently passed by the House. This bill would increase defense spending by $6 billion while implementing severe cuts of $13 billion to vital domestic programs. Such drastic reductions in non-defense discretionary spending would severely undermine critical services and investments that support working families, education, health care, environmental protection, and more. Furthermore, the bill gives the administration concerning unchecked authority to reallocate funds without Congressional oversight. At a time when economic inequality is already at historic highs, the last thing hardworking Americans need is austerity that curtails programs and services they rely on. Budgets are statements of our values and priorities. This misguided legislation prioritizes military spending over the needs of ordinary people. Instead of doubling down on a bloated defense budget, we should be investing in policies and programs that uplift all communities and strengthen the foundation of our economy and society. I strongly urge you to reject this destructive continuing resolution that shortchanges vital domestic priorities in favor of inflated Pentagon spending and expanded executive power over the public purse. Our nation's resources and federal policies should be oriented towards fostering broad-based economic prosperity, public wellbeing, and opportunity for all - not favoring special interests at the expense of working families. Thank you for your consideration.