U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) introduced the Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act on Wednesday. The legislation aims to bolster economic development in rural communities by addressing barriers that hinder these areas from obtaining federal funding and resources.
Many rural communities struggle to compete for federal investment opportunities due to inadequate funding, capacity, and staffing. The new act proposes to rectify these shortfalls with targeted support and a comprehensive government effort to better assist rural communities.
Senator Casey underscored the importance of providing rural communities with equal opportunities to grow their economies and improve their living standards. He stressed that the legislation would enable these communities to compete for federal resources on par with cities and suburban areas.
“Rural Nebraskans deserve to see their tax dollars invested in projects that help their communities,” said Senator Fischer, emphasizing that the bipartisan legislation would optimize federal funding for local communities and enhance their access to federal programs.
The Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act will establish a grant program offering multiyear, flexible awards to communities. These grants can be used to address urgent needs such as affordable child care, housing, and job training. The act will also provide technical assistance grants to help rural communities navigate existing federal funding opportunities and ensure they receive equitable private and federal investment.
Furthermore, the act seeks to improve supportive services offered by the federal government to rural communities.
The bill has received endorsement from more than 50 Pennsylvania officials and organizations, demonstrating widespread support for the initiative aimed at directly supporting rural communities through federal investment opportunities.
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