New Capitol Hill Battle Looms on Social Programs

Setting the stage for another battle between Congress and the White House over spending and social programs, House Republicans have drafted a budget bill that would eliminate aid for AmeriCorps, President Obama’s Race to the Top schools program, and federal family-planning programs, according to The New York Times.

The measure to finance the Labor, Education, and Health and Human Services departments would also cut off federal subsidies for NPR and stipulates that no money be granted “for any purpose” to Planned Parenthood clinics unless they pledge not to provide abortions.

The House measure would provide $153-billion for the three departments for the fiscal year that started October 1, down 2.5 percent from last year and 15 percent less than President Obama is seeking. The Senate version would provide $158-billion.