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Nazareth, Pa., United States

Thursday, April 28, 2011

State Legislators to Talk Budget Cuts Today

I wish I had earlier notice, but just learned late yesterday that State Reps. Doug Reichley, Steve Samuelson, Joe Brennan and Bob Freeman will be conducting a community forum, TODAY, to discuss proposed budget cuts to critical state programs here in the Lehigh Valley.

This gathering will take place at Fowler Family Southside Center, 511 East Third Street, Bethlehem, at 11 AM. It's an opportunity for those affected by the cuts to speak directly with their representatives, have their questions answered, and express their hopes for changes.

According to a CACLV news release, "Governor Corbett’s proposed state budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year includes cuts to programs that help build strong communities." Most of us are aware of the drastic cuts in education spending, but there's more.

* The Homeowner Emergency Assistance Program, a foreclosure assistance program, is eliminated.

* The Human Service Development Fund, a flexible block grant that helps local government provide services for low-income people, is eliminated.

* DCED is cut by 31%.

* Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements to publicly owned nursing homes, continue to dwindle.

Because the Governor is being pressured to restore some of his educational cuts, there are concerns he might even go deeper into human services.

I'll be there.

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