March 14, 2008
By a vote of 212 to 207, the House approved the FY09 Concurrent Budget Resolution which provides $38.3 billion in funding for the International Affairs budget, $1.5 billion below the Administration’s request and Senate approved level of $39.8 billion. As expected, the House rejected three substitute budgets proposed by the Republican Caucus, Congressional Black Caucus and Congressional Progressive Caucus. The Senate and House will adjourn for a two-week recess. When Congress returns, a House-Senate Budget conference committee is expected to convene during the first week of April to resolve differences between the two bills. The USGLC will be vigorously urging the conferees to support the full $39.8 billion for the International Affairs Budget.