From urging Congress to prioritize municipal needs to pressing for restoration of programs like SNAP and LIHEAP, to elevating the economic impacts of the shutdown to organizing our state and local partners, NLC remained a steadfast advocate for local governments throughout the longest federal shutdown in history. We maintain that stable federal funding is vital for communities to thrive.
Wins in This Temporary Budget Bill for Local Governments
- State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) is reauthorized through January 2026, helping local governments strengthen defenses against cyber threats
- FEMA Disaster Relief Fund and grant programs maintained at FY 2025 levels
- National Flood Insurance Program authorization extended
- HUD housing vouchers fully funded to prevent loss of rental assistance
- SNAP benefits restored through September 2026
- LIHEAP funding released to help families with winter heating costs
- Small Business Administration loans expedited to support local economies
Why a Strong Local-Federal Partnership Matters
Local governments are the backbone of our nation’s services and infrastructure. When Washington stalls, cities feel the impact first — be it delayed disaster reimbursements, halted housing assistance or uncertainty for families relying on nutrition benefits. As NLC President Mayor Steve Patterson said, “NLC stands ready to continue working alongside Congress and the Administration to strengthen the federal-local partnership and deliver for communities across America.”
Looking Ahead
It has been nearly three decades since Congress last passed all 12 appropriations bills on time. It is this ongoing funding uncertainty and federal policy changes that have created a complex environment for municipal planning and intergovernmental coordination. Local governments must stay alert and adapt to evolving federal actions that influence funding, regulation and authority, as they are advocating to protect federal funding already budgeted for, demonstrating the ROI of every federal dollar, and staying focused on what they need to see in reauthorizations of water and transportation infrastructure programs.
Let us be clear: this short-term resolution is not enough.
We need Congress to deliver a comprehensive funding package that strengthens the federal-local partnership. NLC stands ready to work with lawmakers and the Administration to ensure that cities have the resources they need to serve residents and drive national progress.
Despite federal uncertainty and ongoing advocacy to be done here in Washington, we applaud local governments for their leadership the past 43 days: staying solutions-focused, people-centered, fiscally responsible and committed to passing a balanced budget every year without interruption. Your strength over the past few weeks has been the reason NLC has been successful in fighting for you.
Join Us
Want to get involved? Fully participate in NLC advocacy campaigns and policy committees to keep municipal priorities front and center. Apply now by Dec. 2 to join a federal advocacy committee.
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