Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB9531

Introduced
9/10/24  

Caption

To make projects in certain counties eligible for funding under the rural surface transportation grant program, and for other purposes.

Impact

The implementation of HB 9531 is expected to increase funding opportunities for infrastructure improvements in rural areas with substantial agricultural output. By facilitating grants for farm-to-market roads and similar projects, the bill can bolster local economies by enhancing transportation networks vital for agricultural products to reach markets efficiently. This could also promote the economic development of these counties by improving access to roads and transportation facilities necessary for their agricultural activities.

Summary

House Bill 9531 aims to enable certain counties to qualify for funding under the rural surface transportation grant program. Specifically, it introduces provisions to amend Section 173 of Title 23 of the United States Code, broadening eligibility criteria for funding projects in counties with significant agricultural production. The bill defines a 'covered county' as one with an annual agricultural production value of at least $1 billion and a minimum of $500,000 in agricultural output per square mile, which would be adjusted for inflation annually. This targeted approach signals a recognition of the economic importance of agriculture to rural communities.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the criteria for which counties are deemed eligible for this funding. Some legislators might argue that the thresholds set for 'covered counties' could exclude smaller agricultural areas, potentially disadvantaging those regions despite their contributions to the economy. Furthermore, the allocation of federal funds towards rural infrastructure under this bill could lead to debates about priorities, particularly if urban projects are perceived as being overlooked in favor of predominantly rural-focused funding.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB3572

To make projects in certain counties eligible for funding under the rural surface transportation grant program, and for other purposes.

US HB502

Protecting Infrastructure Investments for Rural America Act This bill modifies the definition of rural area that is used for the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program and adds provisions for small communities.As background, the grant program supports projects that improve and expand the surface transportation infrastructure in rural areas. Eligible applicants for the grant program include states, regional transportation planning organizations, local governments, and tribal governments.For purposes of the program, the bill defines rural area as an area outside an urbanized area that has a population of 30,000 or less. Current law requires a rural area to be outside of an urbanized area with a population of over 200,000.The bill includes provisions for small communities (i.e., an area outside an urbanized area and that has a population of 5,000 or less). The bill sets the maximum federal cost-share at 90% for project grants carried out in a small community. The Department of Transportation (DOT) must use at least 5% of the program's annual funds to provide grants for projects in small communities. The bill also removes the prohibition against DOT using more than 10% of program funds for grants that are under $25 million.Further, program grants may be used for highway, road, bridge, or tunnel projects that would benefit the economic development or quality of life for citizens of the local community.The bill also specifies that the program's goals include the generation of economic growth and development in rural areas. 

US HB8121

To amend the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 to prohibit congestion or cordon pricing in a value pricing program, and for other purposes.

US HB10421

To establish a permanent rural housing preservation and revitalization program, and for other purposes.

US HB8644

To amend the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 to expand eligibility for underserved community harbor projects, and for other purposes.

US HB8435

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to treat certain price protection payments as eligible rollover distributions, and for other purposes.

US HB10124

To direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and administer a pilot program to provide grants to support Food is Medicine programs, and for other purposes.

US HB10384

To amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 with respect to eligibility under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program, and for other purposes.

US HB10393

To establish a grant program for certain State and local forensic activities, and for other purposes.

US HB10433

To provide for consideration of all modes of transportation and all road users in certain highway and transit programs, and for other purposes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.