House and Senate Provide Funding Levels for FY 2009

On June 19, 2008, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved the Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) Bill (S 3182), which includes $5.0 million for SJI in FY 2009; an increase of $1.24 million over FY 2008. On June 25th the House Appropriations Committee approved the CJS Bill (bill number pending), providing $4.1 million for SJI; an increase of $340,000 over FY 2008. SJI greatly appreciates the House and Senate’s continued support.

It is possible there will not be any action on SJI’s final appropriation until after the next administration takes office. As in prior fiscal years when the spending bills were not complete prior to the beginning of the federal fiscal year (October 1), Congress passes Continuing Resolutions (CRs) funding the government until the final appropriation is approved. It is likely that SJI will be funded under a CR(s) for several months into FY 2009. While under a CR, SJI will make grant awards contingent upon final appropriations. For example, if a grant application is approved by the Board for the 1st Quarter of FY 2009, no grant funding may be drawn down for the project until SJI receives its appropriation. Potential applicants for the 1st Quarter are advised to request permission in advance to use cash match funds until SJI funding is available, so that the project is not delayed.