In a disappointing move, the Senate Budget Committee yesterday approved only $35.7 billion in funding for the International Affairs Budget in its version of the FY09 Concurrent Budget Resolution. This funding level represents a:

• $4.1 billion decrease from the Administration’s $39.8 billion request
• $1 billion decrease from the FY08 enacted level of $36.7 billion (including $2.4 billion in emergency funding)
• $1.4 billion increase from the FY08 base funding of $34.31 billion (excluding $2.4 billion in emergency funding)
• $2.6 billion decrease from the House Budget Resolution level of $38.3 billion.

Put in perspective, the Senate Budget Resolution is the largest total dollar and percentage decrease from the Administration’s request in over a decade.

The USGLC expressed great concern and disappointment over the inadequate funding for these vital programs, particularly with respect to the Senate Budget Committee’s allocation. The House and Senate are expected to debate their respective Concurrent Budget Resolutions during the week of March 10. Our best opportunity to restore funding for the International Affairs Budget is during consideration of the Senate Budget Resolution. We are working closely with our Senate champions to urge them to introduce an amendment during floor debate to restore full funding for the International Affairs Budget.