About Sequestration
*page will be updated as we receive information
What is sequestration?
Sequestration is a process of automatic, across-the-board budget cuts for most federal departments and agencies in order to enforce certain budget policy goals. It’s part of an attempt to curtail the growth of the U.S. national debt. Because Congress couldn’t come together and agree on a budget, that triggered $1.2 trillion in these automatic spending cuts, which began on March 1 and will be in effect during the next 10 years. About $85 billion in cuts are scheduled for this year.
We need to cut our debt and deficits, but we need to do it in a thoughtful, targeted way. The problem with sequestration is that drastic cuts are made without any thought or strategy behind them. This is a reckless approach that will harm our local economies and jobs, schools, national parks, tribes, military, and much more.
Programs exempted from cuts include Social Security and Medicaid; refundable tax credits to individuals; and certain low-income programs. Some discretionary programs also are exempt, notably all programs administered by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. And Medicare may not be cut by more than 4 percent.
How will it affect Arizona and other states?
How will it affect federal agencies?
National Parks (National Parks Conservation Association factsheet)
Indian Health Services (National Indian Health Board factsheet)
Helpful news stories
Cronkite News: Arizona Superintendent Describes 'Sequestration' Impact on Schools
AZ Central: Sequestration Cuts Will Hurt Arizona Schools, Students
Coalition of National Parks Services Retirees: Sequester Memo
Washington Examiner: Vets Don't Have to Worry About Cuts at VA
Washington Post: Air Force Joins Other Military Branches in Suspending Tuition Assistance Program