What is the X date and why we should care…
January 10, 2013
January 10, 2013
Okay Network faithful, this is a “must read” if you are going to keep up with the firestorm that is about to ensue in Washington, DC over the X date and what may happen after it if nothing is done. Understanding the dynamics of what is in play is critically important for children’s mental health advocates. So let’s break it down in question format, using the Bipartisan Policy Center slide deck (below) as our guide:
Question 1: What the heck is the X date?
Question 2: Any great ideas for extending the X date? We did it with the fiscal cliff date, why not with the X date?
Question: So what happens if we go beyond the X date?
Okay Network faithful, you get the idea. This is serious stuff and certainly no time for us to relax. Read through the slide deck to see various scenarios of what actions might be taken, like cutting 8 billion in HHS grants (that ought to get your attention), 10.1 billion in Food/Nutrition Services and TANF, etc. In fact, in the two scenarios presented (pay some bills, not others or pay all of each days obligations once enough revenue is available) HHS grants get an 8 billion dollar hit either way!
And finally, Network faithful are encouraged to read the analysis from the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities on the “spending storm” that lies ahead.
It is critical that all Network readers understand what is coming, and coming soon. It has the extreme potential to be devastating to our economy, fiscal policy and maybe most important, low-income and vulnerable Americans – precisely the segment of our Nation that has the least opportunity to roam the halls in Washington, bending the ears of decision-makers to remind them what’s right.