Congressman Carson Leads Demands to Restore KIB, National Forest Service Funding

WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman André Carson (IN-07) is leading demands to restore funding to the US Forest Service. The Trump administration’s cuts to this agency have impacted nonprofits across the country, including Keep Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) in Indianapolis.

In a letter led by Congressman Carson and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) and signed by 11 Members of Congress, Congressman Carson demands the restoration of funding to agreements supported by the National Pass-through Partnership for Strategic Urban Forestry Investment in Disadvantaged Communities. Many nonprofits and local organizations — including KIB — have depended on these funds to restore tree coverage, promote environmental education, and support workforce development. Congressman Carson spoke on this issue on the House floor yesterday evening.

“It appears that DOGE has flagged words like ‘equity’ and ‘diversity’ in grant applications – even when it’s biodiversity, and tree equity,” said Congressman Carson in yesterday’s floor speech. “That’s not just bureaucratic overreach—it’s absurd.

“Tree equity is the idea that every neighborhood deserves trees. Without them, underserved areas become heat islands—trapping heat, raising energy bills, and degrading quality of life. This isn’t theory—it’s science.

“Investing in greener, healthier neighborhoods benefits every American. These cuts undermine that goal.

“I urge the USDA to reverse course—and I call on my colleagues to join me in demanding the restoration of these critical investments in our communities.”

Video of Congressman’s floor speech can be found on CSPAN here or here. The full letter sent to the US Department of Agriculture is attached.

“Keep Indianapolis Beautiful intended to use the funds that were awarded through a competitive grant process to transform vacant and abandoned lots into vibrant community greenspaces,” said Jeremy Kranowitz, President and CEO of KIB. “Research has proven that pocket parks make neighborhoods healthier and safer places to live. At this point, we have not secured donations from other sources to replace the lost funds.”

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