A recent memo to the heads of federal departments and agencies from Jacob J. Lew, director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, addressed 2013 budget requests. Lew stated that 2013 budget submissions to OMB should be at least five percent below 2011 enacted discretionary appropriation, unless an agency has been given explicit direction otherwise by OMB.
Furthermore, 2013 budget submissions also should identify additional discretionary funding reductions that would bring the request to a level that is at least 10 percent below 2011 enacted discretionary appropriation. Lew added that programs with potential to enhance economic growth with be prioritized.
