Wyden Hopeful SRS Reauthorization Will Clear The House This Week

Rural communities across the Northwest could, once again, see federal money for schools and roads, under a program that lapsed in 2023.  Oregon Senator Ron Wyden pointed out that the Secure Rural Schools reauthorization passed his chamber in June, but stalled in the House, until now.

“Under this legislation, we would get two years or so of back money, and then money going forward," Wyden noted.

Oregon's senior senator added he’s received assurances the bill will get a House vote this week, but he admits, it’s again a temporary fix.

"I hope we can look for a longer term approach, but three years will be well received right now," Wyden said.  "I can tell you, I’ve been talking to all the county commissioners and they’re going to be ecstatic."

The Secure Rural Schools Act benefits counties with federally owned forestland, it compensates those local governments because that federal land is exempt from property taxes.  Last week, Southwest Washington’s Marie Glusenkamp Perez called on House leadership to take up SRS reauthorization before the end of the year.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com