A Letter from the Democratic Women’s Caucus: Prioritizing Appropriations for Fiscal 2027
As we look towards the future of our country, it is crucial that we make strategic and thoughtful decisions regarding our budget and appropriations. With this in mind, the leaders of the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) have recently sent a letter outlining our top priorities for fiscal 2027 to House Appropriations Committee Chair Tom Cole and ranking member Rosa DeLauro. This letter, shared with The Hill, serves as a reminder of the important role that women play in shaping our nation’s budget and the impact it has on our communities.
The letter, sent on Tuesday, comes just days after the White House unveiled its budget requests for the upcoming fiscal year. As leaders of the DWC, we believe it is our responsibility to advocate for the needs and concerns of women, families, and marginalized communities in the budgeting process. We are committed to ensuring that our budget reflects our values and priorities as a nation.
One of our top priorities is investing in women’s health and reproductive rights. As we continue to fight for gender equality, it is imperative that we protect and expand access to comprehensive healthcare for women. This includes funding for family planning services, maternal health programs, and reproductive health care. We urge the Appropriations Committee to prioritize these critical investments in order to support the health and well-being of women across the country.
In addition, we are calling for increased funding for programs that support women and families. This includes childcare assistance, paid family leave, and affordable housing initiatives. These programs not only benefit women, but also promote economic stability and security for families. By investing in these areas, we can help break down barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential and ensure that families have the support they need to thrive.
Furthermore, we are urging the Appropriations Committee to address the issue of gender-based violence. Women and girls are disproportionately affected by violence, and it is our duty to provide the necessary resources to prevent and respond to these crimes. This includes funding for programs that support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. We cannot turn a blind eye to the alarming rates of violence against women and must take action to protect and support those affected.
Education is also a key area of focus for the DWC. We believe that every child, regardless of their gender, race, or socioeconomic status, deserves access to a quality education. This is why we are calling for increased funding for early childhood education, K-12 education, and higher education. Investing in education not only benefits individuals, but also strengthens our economy and society as a whole.
Finally, we are advocating for a budget that prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability. Climate change disproportionately affects women and marginalized communities, and it is essential that we take bold action to address this crisis. We urge the Appropriations Committee to invest in renewable energy, clean water and air initiatives, and environmental justice programs. By prioritizing these areas, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
As leaders of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, we are committed to advocating for a budget that reflects the needs and priorities of women. We believe that by investing in women, we are investing in the future of our country. We urge the Appropriations Committee to consider our appropriations priorities for fiscal 2027 and work towards creating a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
In conclusion, we are grateful for the opportunity to share our appropriations priorities with the House Appropriations Committee and look forward to working together towards a budget that reflects the values and needs of all Americans. We are confident that by working together, we can create a better and more inclusive future for generations to come. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
The Leaders of the Democratic Women’s Caucus
