I have sharply reduced expenditures for those programs which can be deferred or eliminated, even though these programs bring clear benefits to the Nation and would be highly desirable in normal times. For example, many long-range programs for the development of our natural resources are being deferred in order to place greater emphasis on meeting current defense requirements. This Budget contains funds for only half as many general flood-control projects as my Budget of 2 years ago. New starts on flood control, reclamation, and river and harbor works have been limited to urgently needed power projects, flood-control projects in the Kansas-Missouri area, and emergency rehabilitation work which cannot be deferred. The Federal-aid highway program will remain below the authorized level of 500 million dollars, and major emphasis is being placed on improving the network of roads most essential to defense and civilian traffic. Expenditures for rural electrification and rural telephones have been reduced. All major programs for housing and community development outside critical defense housing areas will be held substantially below the levels authorized by basic legislation. Many other programs, which are necessary for preserving the basic strength of this Nation, have been maintained at approximately their present levels. Finally, a number of programs contributing directly to the defense effort have been expanded--such as defense housing, aid for schools in defense areas, projects for expansion of electric power generation, and the port security program of the Coast Guard.🏁

I have sharply reduced expenditures for those programs which can be deferred or eliminated, even though these programs bring clear benefits to the Nation and would be highly desirable in normal times. For example, many long-range programs for the development of our natural resources are being deferred in order to place greater emphasis on meeting current defense requirements. This Budget contains funds for only half as many general flood-control projects as my Budget of 2 years ago. New starts on flood control, reclamation, and river and harbor works have been limited to urgently needed power projects, flood-control projects in the Kansas-Missouri area, and emergency rehabilitation work which cannot be deferred. The Federal-aid highway program will remain below the authorized level of 500 million dollars, and major emphasis is being placed on improving the network of roads most essential to defense and civilian traffic. Expenditures for rural electrification and rural telephones have been reduced. All major programs for housing and community development outside critical defense housing areas will be held substantially below the levels authorized by basic legislation. Many other programs, which are necessary for preserving the basic strength of this Nation, have been maintained at approximately their present levels. Finally, a number of programs contributing directly to the defense effort have been expanded--such as defense housing, aid for schools in defense areas, projects for expansion of electric power generation, and the port security program of the Coast Guard.🏁