East Idaho Times

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo’s (R-Idaho) bipartisan bill to reauthorize the U.S. Forest Service’s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through 2026 has passed out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Crapo was joined by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) in reintroducing the legislation.

The bill aims to alleviate uncertainty for rural county governments by extending SRS payments through 2026. These payments are crucial for funding schools, road maintenance, public safety, search and rescue operations, as well as mental and physical health services in Idaho's rural counties. Senator Crapo expressed his appreciation for the Senate Committee's decision, stating, "Alleviating uncertainty for rural county governments in the future is the ultimate goal. I applaud the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for making this first, important step in extending SRS payments through 2026."

Senator Risch also emphasized the importance of supporting rural counties, saying, "We need to work to increase forest management and bring back historic timber revenue, but, in the meantime, we have an obligation to these communities." He further regarded the committee vote as a significant step and urged Congress to continue moving forward with the reauthorization of SRS.

In the U.S. House of Representatives, companion legislation was introduced by U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse (D-Colorado), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington), and Val Hoyle (D-Oregon). This bipartisan effort reflects the recognition of the importance of the SRS program in assisting counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands.

The Secure Rural Schools program, enacted in 2000, provides financial assistance to counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands. Administered by the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the program's funding is determined by a formula that takes into account economic activity, timber harvest levels, and other considerations specific to each county. These payments are particularly vital for many rural counties that contain federal lands exempt from property taxes, as they help maintain essential education programs.

The passage of Senator Crapo's bill out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources brings hope for the continued support of rural communities and their educational and public service needs. As this legislation progresses, it is expected to have a positive impact on the stability and development of rural schools and infrastructure.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-legislation-investing-in-rural-schools-passes-out-of-committee