President Barack Obama revealed his budget proposals yesterday. The 2010 budget increases funding for the Agriculture Department to $26 billion. However, it also decreases funding for some programs that have been around for a long time.

No more farm subsidies for some

Over the three years that begin in September, Obama proposes phasing out direct payments to some farmers. This will only affect farmers who bring in more than $500,000 per year in sales revenue.

He will also decrease funding for the Market Access Program. The plan would eliminate funding to  promote overseas brands.

Expensive census

Obama hasn’t appointed a Department of Commerce Secretary yet, but he has drawn up plans for how much he wants to spend on commerce. This department’s funding would make a big jump from $9.3 billion to $13.8 billion.

Most of the additional spending would go toward the 2010 Census. Obama wants to ensure the Census is completed “effectively, efficiently and on time.”

Investing in education

The 2010 budget calls for $46.7 billion for education. That’s $500 million more than the education budget for 2009. The budget includes $2.5 billion to help low-income students go to college.

Focus on energy

In the Energy Department, the budget allows for $26.3 billion in spending. That’s in addition to the $11 billion for energy in the stimulus package.

Obama says his plan “supports and encourages the early commercial development of innovative, clean energy technologies through loan guarantees.”

Beefing up security

Obama plans to invest more money in Homeland Security than was spent last year. The total comes to $42.7 billion, compared to$40.1 billion in 2009.

His plan includes adding more “Visual Intermodal Protection Response” teams, changing the system for vetting travelers and workers, expanding the electronic employment eligibility verification system and extra funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement programs.

And justice for all

The budget proposes funding to hire more prosecutors and agents to combat financial fraud and more police officers. It dedicates funds to making the border more secure and proposes $145 million to strengthen civil rights enforcement.

Victims and evacuees of the California wildfires are seeking refuge from the flames, and they should know quick payday loans are a valuable resource in times of emergency. There’s never enough warning to prepare for the destruction left in the wake of a natural disaster. In most situations, you have to come up with quick solutions as to what items you will take with you when you evacuate and where you will evacuate to. Quick payday loans are the quick solution to the unexpected costs associated with natural disasters.

State of Emergency Declared

California wildfires have destroyed more than 700 homes

High winds up to 70 miles and hour are to blame for the spread of the Southern California wildfires. The fires have destroyed more than 700 homes, and they could continue burning through the middle of this week. Damage has been done from Santa Barbara to Anaheim, with Los Angeles taking the brunt of the devastation; over 500 homes were lost in Sylmar, a district of Los Angeles. California Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, declared a state of emergency in the four counties affected by the fires.

Not a Californian?

It is easy to sit back and watch when another part of the country is being ravaged by a natural disaster. If you weren’t in Louisiana or the surrounding areas when Hurricane Katrina hit, it’s likely that it didn’t even feel real to you. If you’re not a Californian, you may be indifferent to the situation because in reality, the fires probably don’t affect your life directly. However, every part of the nation has the potential for natural disasters. Earthquakes and tsunamis are a threat to the West Coast, tornados and snow storms frequent the Midwest, and hurricane season often takes a toll on East Coast and southern states. With that being said, emergency preparation is essential, no matter where you live.

Anyone and Everyone

Natural disasters do not discriminate between income, race, gender, age, or religion. When disaster hits, it hits hard, and it hits everyone. The California wildfires burned trailers and mansions alike; celebrity neighbors of Oprah Winfrey even lost their homes. Anyone and everyone can be affected by Mother Nature, which means everyone needs to be prepared. The United States Department of Homeland Security has great tips on how to prepare you and your family for impending natural disasters. Some of the tips for emergency preparation are having a plan and getting an emergency kit with food and water.

Additional Preparation

Not only is it important to be prepared for an emergency with water, food, and other survival basics, it’s also necessary to have a financial plan. Emergencies are one reason to have a well-established savings account. However, in economic times like these, it’s safe to assume that your budget is already stretched to the max and your savings account is dwindling, or even non-existent. Your financial plan may need a backup plan. That’s where quick payday loans come in. When an emergency or natural disaster comes your way, quick decisions on how to cover costs are required. If you need help to get you through an emergency, quick payday loans are available at your convenience.