Last month the President introduced his 2013 budget proposal.  This month, its the House GOP turn.

House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan of Wisconsin introduced the bill on March 20th and one day later, it was voted out of committee by one vote.  Even so, a vote on the House floor is expected in the next week.

The budget proposal as presented by Congressman Ryan would cut spending by $5.3 trillion over 10 years and set the spending cap for 2013 at $1.028 trillion, some $19 billion less than what was adopted in August. 

While further analysis of the proposal is forthcoming, its save to say that it includes cuts to programs of interest to locals.  That said, expect nothing but rhetoric on the 2013 budget between now and the election. 

In the meantime, members are encouarged to adopt a resolution urging Congress to take a balanced approach to the budget.  And as always, be sure to speak to your representative about the importance of various federal programs you have used to improve quality of living in your community.

Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.