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U.S. House fails to reauthorize 20-year-old bill that helps fund rural schools, communities in Oregon and other states

The U.S. House of Representatives failed to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, a 20-year-old bill that provides crucial funding for rural schools and communities in Oregon and other states. This lapse in reauthorization has left many rural areas, particularly in Oregon where the program supports 19 counties, without the expected federal funds that compensate for the loss of tax revenue due to federal land ownership. The failure to pass the bill has raised concerns about the financial stability of these communities, with potential impacts on education, road maintenance, and emergency services. Oregon's congressional delegation, including Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, expressed disappointment and are actively working on solutions to ensure the funding continues, highlighting the urgency of the situation as local budgets are strained without this support.

Read the Full Oregonian Article at:
[ https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2024/12/us-house-fails-to-reauthorize-20-year-old-bill-that-helps-fund-rural-schools-communities-in-oregon-and-other-states.html ]