NATaT House GRS Letter
The Honorable XXX
Include the General Revenue Sharing Program in the Economic Stimulus Package
Dear Representative XXX:
On behalf of YOUR COMMUNITY and the National Association of Towns and Townships, I respectfully request that you reinstate the General Revenue Sharing Program in the upcoming economic stimulus package.
The most effective way to stimulate the U.S. economy is to reinstate the General Revenue Sharing Program. Federal stimulus funds must reach local governments, including towns and townships. The General Revenue Sharing (GRS) program provided unrestricted funds to states and to local governments under the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972, which expired in 1986. These funds could be used for any purpose by the recipient governments. From 1972-1980, GRS funds went, by formula, to both state and local governments. In the 1980 extension through the end of the program in 1986, funds went solely to local governments. GRS funds included in the economic stimulus package should be directed to local governments.
As was the case when the law was enacted in 1972, GRS means different things for different communities. In some, it means better schools or better hospitals. In others, it means money to put more police officers on the street. And in others, funds are used for job training, recreational facilities, or public transportation. In each case, it gives local officials the control to respond to local conditions.
Upon signing the 1972 law, President Richard Nixon stated, "Revenue sharing will give these hard-pressed governments the dollars they need so badly. But just as importantly, it will give them the freedom they need to use those dollars as effectively as possible."
The National Association of Towns and Townships represents approximately 13,000 towns and townships, in addition to YOUR COMMUNITY. When the General Revenue Sharing program existed from 1972-1986, towns and townships enjoyed a tremendous benefit. Oftentimes, the smaller communities in this country are neglected and do not receive the federal assistance afforded to the metropolitan communities. The General Revenue Sharing program brought parity to the distribution of federal funds, and now more than ever, we need your help.
Thank you for your attention to this matter, and as always, thank you for your continued leadership on behalf of
the XXXX DISTRICT and the entire STATE OF XXX.
Sincerely,
Cc: The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader, U.S. House of Representatives (Via Facsimile:
The Honorable David Obey, Chairman, Appropriations Committee, U.S. House of Representatives (Via Facsimile:
Jennifer Imo, National Association of Towns and Townships (Via Facsimile:
