Merkley, Wyden Warn RD Reorganization Will Hurt Rural America

Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley are opposing a proposed reorganization of USDA’s Rural Development.  In a letter to the Department of Ag last week, the senators warn the plan could weaken programs that support rural housing, small businesses, broadband, health clinics, and critical water and electric infrastructure.

“Rural Development is a unique division within the Department, supporting agriculture and ensuring that rural communities prosper by administering grants and loans to support rural businesses, providing financial support for rural housing, financing the construction of rural health clinics and daycare centers, and championing critical infrastructure projects for water, electric, or broadband,” the senators wrote to USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden. “Rural communities, small businesses, and families will lose access to important services if the proposed reorganization plan moves forward.” 

The senators stressed the USDA’s proposal would require about 60% of the agency's Washington, D.C.-area staff to relocate to St. Louis or Dallas by October of 2026 or leave their jobs.

Washington’s Patty Murray, as well as 19 other senators, also signed last week’s letter. 

Click Here to read last week's letter.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-9791, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com