Northwest PA News

U.S. Representative Glenn "GT" Thompson has partnered with Reps. Doug LaMalfa and Joe Neguse to introduce the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act. The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, first passed in 2000, aims to provide funding for schools, roads, and essential services in counties that contain large areas of tax-exempt federal land.

Representative Thompson emphasized the importance of reauthorizing the program: “Without reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools Program, many local education agencies may miss future payments, through no fault of their own.” He added that a bipartisan coalition is eager to finalize this effort quickly.

Rep. LaMalfa highlighted the program's significance for rural counties: “For rural counties, including those in my own district, Secure Rural Schools funding is essential." He noted that California received $33.7 million from this program in 2024 alone, supporting classrooms and vital services such as public safety and infrastructure. LaMalfa also stressed the need to restore the timber industry to provide revenue instead of relying on temporary solutions like SRS.

Rep. Neguse expressed his support by stating: “The Secure Rural Schools program is a vital lifeline for folks in our rural and mountain communities.” He mentioned that it funds various initiatives such as wildfire mitigation and emergency search and rescue services.

Since its inception, SRS has distributed $7 billion across more than 700 counties and 4,400 school districts in 40 states.