More Rural Opportunities: Easier Access to USDA Grants
This act aims to make it easier for small, rural communities, especially those with significant federal land, to access U.S. Department of Agriculture grants. It reduces local matching fund requirements and offers additional support, potentially boosting local businesses, improving infrastructure, and expanding access to services like telemedicine and internet.
Key points
Reduced Local Matching Funds: Local governments and Tribal governments in small, rural counties will need to contribute 50% less of their own funds for USDA grant-funded projects.
Increased Technical Assistance: The U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide more help with grant applications, making it easier to apply.
Priority for New Applicants: Counties and communities that haven't received grant support in the past 10 years will have a better chance of getting funding.
Flexible Grant Requirements: The act allows for adjustments to grant rules to better suit the needs of small and isolated communities, for example, regarding job creation numbers or partnership requirements.
Introduced
Citizen Poll