OBAMA'S BUDGET

 A memo to staff:
There are many people, agencies, and jobs that could be affected by Obama's proposed budget.  There are many local angles to take for this assignment.  There are lots of questions to consider.  Dig deep and speak to as many people and departments as you can.  Here are some suggestions...

1. “Over the last 45 years we have increased our investment in education, but the return on that investment has failed to improve student achievement,” Mr. Kline said. “Throwing more money at our nation’s broken education system ignores reality and does a disservice to students and taxpayers.” With nationally funded programs like "Race to the Top" and "Head Start"  there is a concern if taxpayer dollars are being used in the most effective way.  While many schools are suffering by cutting employee benefits (for non-union workers), sports/ extracurricular  programs, and jobs all-together it could be worthwhile to speak with teachers and parents about whether they think federal money is being spent appropriately. Should money be cut from these programs?  Should there be an increase of money going to different places in school systems?
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20110215-NEWS-102150396

2. On the same note regarding education, it's important to look at the Pell-Grant for college.  Not only find students who may suffer if 15% is cut from this but how are students paying for college?  As far as locally- what would cutting the Pell-Grant do to students?

3. Energy continues to be a hot topic of discussion.  "The Energy Department's budget is 12 percent higher than it was in 2010, including increases for clean energy programs."
What does this mean for NH?  Recently there have been environmental studies by UNH have been funded by national agencies.  What have tax payer dollars been used to fuel?  what findings have been made?
http://www.wirenh.com/news-mainmenu-4/11-news-general/4158-unh-gets-funding-for-environmental-program.html

4. "The proposal includes cuts to low income home energy assistance and community service block grants."  Cuts (by 15%) to this could mean severe losses to many families experiencing hardship, including low-income ones.  The administration for Children and Families includes support for child abuse and neglect, disabilities, energy assistance, and many others.  Talk to people in departments across the state dealing with these issues- what does this mean for them?
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/newsgraphics/2011/0119-budget/index.html?hp&ref=politics

5. Employment and Training is taking the biggest hit at a loss of over 50% of revenue. With Lynch's proposal to cut jobs across the state- what will this do to our economy.  how will this effect NH? http://www.doleta.gov/reports/