For the last century, the money has gone to counties with large amounts of federal land that can't be taxed. Congress failed to include it in the upcoming budget.
The article from MSN discusses the significant financial impact on rural California due to recent federal funding cuts. Specifically, these cuts have led to a loss of millions of dollars that were previously allocated for schools and road maintenance in rural areas. The reduction in funding stems from changes in federal policies and budget reallocations, affecting the Secure Rural Schools program which compensates counties for the tax-exempt federal lands within their boundaries. This has resulted in diminished resources for education and infrastructure, exacerbating the challenges faced by these communities in providing essential services. Local officials and residents are expressing concerns over the sustainability of schools and the maintenance of roads, which are crucial for economic and social activities in these isolated regions.