On Friday, May 30th, the White House released the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget Request, along with the Department of Energy’s Budget in Brief. These documents provide the first public insight into how federal funds might be allocated for the Hanford Site in the year ahead.
As always, this request marks the beginning, not the end, of the federal budget process. While there are some early concerns, there are also reasons for cautious optimism.
But what does this mean?
Two Budget Documents, Two Sets of Numbers
The full Budget Request includes a proposed $34 million reduction in Hanford funding compared to FY25. However, the Budget in Brief, which typically reflects more recent adjustments and may be more indicative of the administration’s final intent, outlines flat funding for the site. Both documents propose shifting approximately $163 million toward the tank waste mission, which is a priority area of cleanup, but this shift comes at the expense of other ongoing activities across the site.
This internal reallocation signals a strong focus on supporting the progress of low-activity waste vitrification, but it also creates funding pressures elsewhere; pressures that could slow down other essential risk-reduction work.
The Broader Context: Flat Funding Amid National Cuts
While flat funding does not fully meet Hanford’s actual needs in FY26, it is important to view this proposal within the broader federal context. Many federal programs, including others within the Department of Energy, are facing significant cuts. In that light, proposed level funding for Hanford is actually a relatively positive starting point.
Still, Hanford’s budget requirements are projected to increase in the coming years in order to:
- Maintain momentum on the Direct-Feed Low-Activity Waste (DFLAW) program
- Advance design and construction of the High-Level Waste Facility
- Package and ship transuranic waste
- Continue cleanup activities across the Central Plateau and River Corridor
Without adequate funding, the site risks falling behind on key milestones.
This is the Starting Point and the Power of the Purse
While the President’s request is an important benchmark, it is Congress that “has the power of the purse” meaning they ultimately determine the final budget. Hanford Communities is actively working with federal agencies, local governments, and regional partners like TRIDEC to advocate for adequate FY26 funding.
We are also encouraged by the continued bipartisan support from our congressional delegation, who have a long history of increasing Hanford funding above the levels proposed by the administration. There is no indication that this support will waver in the current budget cycle.
For a helpful explanation of how this process works, check out:
- USA.gov – Federal Budget Process Overview
- Center on Budget and Policy Priorities – Introduction to the Federal Budget Process
- National Priorities Project – Federal Budget 101
- Tax Policy Center – How the Federal Budget Process Works
- Congressional Research Service – Introduction to the Federal Budget Process
What Can You Do?
At this point, no immediate action is required. However, community members may wish to thank Senator Murray, Senator Cantwell, and Congressman Newhouse for their consistent leadership on Hanford cleanup funding and encourage them to maintain their strong support as this year’s process unfolds.
Budget Resources
Interested in reviewing the Hanford-related sections of the budget?
- FY26 Budget Request (Hanford section: Pages 278–279)
- Budget in Brief (Hanford section: Pages 34–36)
- Tri-City Herald: “$34 million cut proposed for Hanford”
The Takeaway
While the President’s FY26 Budget Request does not yet reflect the full scope of Hanford’s funding needs, this is a familiar starting point. Flat funding, especially amid broader federal reductions, can be seen as a solid foundation to build from. With the support of Congress, we are optimistic that final funding levels will better reflect the scale and urgency of the Hanford cleanup mission.
Hanford Communities remains committed to advocating for responsible, sustained investment in the site, and to keeping the public informed throughout the process.
