Senator Burns (R - Montana) Disappointed in Budget Cuts
Sends Letter to Budget Chair Outlining Concerns http://www.burns.senate.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=PressReleases.View&PressRelease_id=1264
WASHINGTON-U.S. Sen. Conrad Burns (R-Mont.) wrote a letter to Budget Committee Chairman Judd Gregg (R-NH) this week in response to the education cuts included in the President’s proposed budget. “I am extremely disappointed that the budget did not include funding for critical vocational education programs,” said Burns. “We also saw cuts to Federal TRIO and other high school-related programs that work to decrease Montana’s high school drop out rates, despite their effectiveness. These programs make a difference in the lives of Montana's young people and I will continue to work hard to ensure that these successful programs continue.”
Burns has supported various vocational initiatives in the past, including the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act, which provides more coordination and flexibility to ensure students are better prepared for postsecondary education and the workforce. He stated: “Vocational education programs have made a real difference in the lives of countless young people nationwide; they build self-confidence and leadership skills by allowing students to utilize their unique gifts and talents. As a former member of the organization previously known as Future Farmers of America (FFA), I know firsthand the value of these programs. Without them, our students would miss out on valuable opportunities that often lead to their success.”
Burns was also disappointed to see cuts to Federal TRIO and other high school-related programs, including Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math/Science and GEAR UP. These programs help guide career paths for Montana’s disadvantaged students in the direction of achievement and academic excellence. The Upward Bound Math/Science programs allow participating students to receive free tutoring and challenge them to reach their full potential in academic fields. “These programs have not only lowered Montana’s high school drop out rates but also fostered students’ abilities to reach for their dreams of college and beyond, and we cannot allow the cuts the President has put forth,” said Burns.
Additionally, Burns was dismayed to see the Tribally Controlled Community Colleges program cut by $9.8 million, the Johnson O’Malley Indian Education program cut by $8.8 million, and Rural Development Grants to tribal colleges cut by $4 million. “These programs offer a real boost to the education opportunities in our Native Americans communities, and it’s unfortunate to see these big cuts. I will continue conversations with my Senate colleagues regarding the importance of all of these education programs, and work to restore funding as the budget process moves forward in Congress.”