"This bill sends a clear message to the American people.   Congress will protect the interests of oil companies and defense contractors, but will turn its back on the most vulnerable among us -- the homeless and the hungry," said Schakowsky. 

 The bill will cut $350 million from the Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Section 8 Housing program.  According to HUD, more than 60,000 families and senior citizens could lose their homes if these funds are not restored during next year's appropriations process.  In addition, $1.25 billion will be cut from the food stamps program.  However, the interests of oil companies and defense contractors are well preserved in this legislation in provisions that help them, but threaten the environment. 

 "This bill is an outrage.  It is another example of Congress' inability for restraint.  In a matter of weeks, Congress more than doubled the President's request, flooded the bill with special interests provisions that have nothing to do with Kosovo or humanitarian aid, and reduced housing assistance for low-income families by $350 million," added Representative Schakowsky, a member of the Housing and Community Opportunity Subcommittee. 

Schakowsky said that, although HUD has warned against a looming housing crisis, Congress is cutting the supply of affordable housing to all Americans. 
  
 "It is the height of hypocrisy to mouth concern for the hungry and homeless in Kosovo, while cutting critical funding for the hungry and homeless here at home," said Schakowsky.