Is this good news or bad news? Depends on what your expectations are. The general reaction was favorable.
Science News
wrote:
President Obama sent the research community a valentine of sorts in his proposed 2012 federal budget. Sent to Congress on February 14, the budget was a pledge to fight for increased investment in research and education even as the president committed to a belt-tightening for most segments of federal spending.
R&D in the Budget: Half Full or Half Empty? « Mandel on Innovation and Growth