Yuba-Sutter Times

Reps. Doug LaMalfa and Joe Neguse have introduced the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act in Washington, D.C. The legislation aims to extend the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS), which was first enacted in 2000. This act provides funding for schools, roads, and essential services in counties with significant amounts of tax-exempt federal land.

Rep. LaMalfa emphasized the importance of this funding for rural counties, stating: "For rural counties, including those in my own district, Secure Rural Schools funding is essential. This program ensures that schools stay open, roads are maintained, and emergency services are available, even when federal timber revenues fall short." He noted that California received $33.7 million through this program in 2024 alone.

Rep. Neguse highlighted the program's role as a "vital lifeline" for rural communities: "It unlocks funding for students and schools, wildfire mitigation initiatives, emergency search and rescue services, road maintenance, and more."

Rep. Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson warned about potential consequences if the program is not reauthorized: “Without reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools Program, many local education agencies may miss future payments.”

The bipartisan coalition includes Reps. Val Hoyle from Oregon who stated: “The Secure Rural Schools program has provided critical revenue for schools... It’s essential this program continues.” Rep. Cliff Bentz also from Oregon added that it supports classrooms by providing necessary resources.

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez from Washington expressed concerns over potential impacts on public services tied to natural resources: “Failing to reauthorize SRS would result in devastating losses of jobs... I refuse to let federal inaction undermine rural opportunities for our kids.”

Montana's Rep. Ryan Zinke stressed the need for these funds in logging communities affected by federal land holdings: “Let’s get this across the finish line and get money into the hands of people that need it.”

Since its inception, SRS has delivered $7 billion to over 700 counties across 40 states but faces uncertainty due to lapses in congressional authorization.

The proposed bill seeks to extend SRS payments through FY2026 ensuring continued support where needed most.