San Antonio Standard

Reps. Tony Gonzales and Don Davis have introduced a bipartisan legislation aimed at providing increased support for rural communities. The Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act, if passed, would allow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide technical assistance to strengthen local capacity and improve access to rural development programs.

Congressman Tony Gonzales highlighted the need for better access to federal development programs and grants for rural communities. He said, "Far too often, rural communities are left out of the picture when it comes to access to federal development programs and grants. One of my top priorities in Congress is to get funding out of Washington and back into South and West Texas communities. The Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act will provide technical assistance for applicants and improve access to rural development programs to help deliver funding back to Texas and rural communities across the country."

Congressman Don Davis, who has firsthand experience as a former mayor of a small town, emphasized the challenges faced by eastern North Carolina communities in receiving adequate support. He stated, "Historically, eastern North Carolina communities and local organizations have faced many challenges in receiving the same level of support as others across the state and the country. Strengthening collaboration with USDA Rural Development is crucial to ensuring these communities receive the support they need, and the bipartisan Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act stands as a vital solution, offering essential assistance and recognizing local partners as invaluable allies in uplifting rural communities."

The proposed legislation seeks to address the disparities in support faced by rural communities by enabling the USDA to provide technical assistance directly or through cooperative agreements. This assistance will strengthen local capacity and improve access to rural development programs. By doing so, the Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act aims to deliver funding and support back to rural areas across the country, including Texas and eastern North Carolina.

If passed, this bipartisan legislation will play a crucial role in uplifting rural communities and ensuring they have the resources and support needed for development and growth. It recognizes the importance of collaboration between federal agencies and local partners in addressing the unique challenges faced by rural areas.

As the bill moves through Congress, it is expected to garner support from lawmakers who recognize the significance of investing in rural communities and providing them with equal opportunities for development. The Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act has the potential to make a positive impact on rural areas across the country by strengthening their capacity and improving access to much-needed resources.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://gonzales.house.gov/2023/12/reps-tony-gonzales-don-davis-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-provide-increased-support-for-rural-communities/8db01db0-b285-4ce0-a52b-e5b66ec873c0