East Idaho Times

Idaho counties will receive a total of $22.8 million in payments for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 under the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program. U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, along with Representative Mike Simpson and Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth, made the announcement in Boise, Idaho.

Senator Crapo emphasized the importance of finding a permanent solution for funding rural counties, stating, "SRS payments are essential for rural counties across Idaho and the West, but a permanent solution is needed." Senator Risch echoed this sentiment, pointing out the impact of limited timber production on federal lands, saying, "Communities that would have once funded schools and infrastructure with timber revenue no longer have that option."

Representative Simpson highlighted the significance of the Secure Rural Schools program for Idaho, stating, "Nearly two-thirds of Idaho consists of federal land, which means many rural counties in our state depend on the Secure Rural Schools program." He expressed gratitude for the allocation of funds to support essential rural community services.

State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth expressed her appreciation for the delegation's efforts in securing the appropriation for Idaho, emphasizing the vital role of the SRS program in funding rural communities. She also noted that her office would be actively working to distribute the funds to Idaho counties in the coming weeks.

The Secure Rural Schools program has been extended and amended multiple times by Congress, with the latest extension through 2023. Efforts are underway to renew the program, with legislation introduced to extend it through 2026.

The SRS payments are crucial for Idaho counties, with 30 percent allocated for schools and 70 percent earmarked for roads, bridges, and infrastructure projects. The funds are administered by the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management based on a formula that considers economic activity, timber harvest levels, and other factors specific to each county.

Idaho received the third-highest total in the U.S. for SRS payments, underscoring the program's significance for the state's rural communities. The delegation's advocacy for a lasting solution reflects their commitment to supporting education, infrastructure, and essential services in Idaho's rural areas.