Change the Chamber Statement on the Trump Administration’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Proposal

By The National Climate Fellows at Change the Chamber, June 5 , 2025

At a time of record-breaking emissions, intensifying extreme weather events, and ongoing rollbacks of environmental protections, this is no moment to weaken the institutions that protect people and the planet.

“As a youth-led climate coalition, Change the Chamber is deeply disappointed by the Trump Administration’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal, which includes sweeping cuts to cornerstone agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Interior (DOI), and other critical agencies and programs that safeguard every American’s health and environment. Slashing tens of billions in funding from the very agencies that keep our air breathable, our water clean, our lands livable, and our communities safe will do nothing but drive up costs for taxpayers and destabilize communities across the country. Marginalized groups—including millions of low-income, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and disabled Americans—will be hurt the most by these proposed cuts.

At a time of record-breaking emissions, intensifying extreme weather events, and ongoing rollbacks of environmental protections, this is no moment to weaken the institutions that protect people and the planet. The agencies make up a small portion of the federal budget but consistently deliver enormous returns by safeguarding public health, supporting economic development, and protecting our sacred natural resources. Cutting funding for these agencies and programs only serves to benefit polluters and climate obstructors, while the American taxpayers pay the price.

These proposed cuts are not about fiscal responsibility. The Administration’s attempt to label essential, science-based agencies and programs as “radical” or “tools of indoctrination” is misleading and harmful. Most Americans support strong action to preserve public land, reduce harmful pollution, and prevent disasters that threaten the lives and livelihoods of millions. Climate change and pollution are not partisan issues. They are public safety and economic security concerns. Every community—urban, rural, coastal, or inland—deserves access to clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment. 

We urge the Senate to reject this destructive budget proposal and prioritize the health, safety, and future of their constituents over the interests of billionaires and big polluters. Change the Chamber will continue working to ensure a stable climate and livable future for all, especially for youth and generations to come. We are young people from across the country speaking out and demanding better from the leaders we elected to represent us. The stakes are too high, and we will not stand by while the future of our communities and planet is put at risk.”

The National Climate Fellows at Change the Chamber

Change The Chamber is a nonpartisan coalition of young adults, 100+ student groups across the country, environmental justice and frontline community groups, and other allied organizations.