H.R.1383 - Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1383, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, seeks to extend the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. The bill primarily focuses on continuing financial assistance to states and counties with federal lands. This ensures these areas receive payments to support schools and local services.
Expected Effects
The Act extends secure payments to states and counties containing federal land through 2026. It also extends the authority to conduct special projects on federal land through 2028 and to expend county funds through 2028. The bill addresses payment distribution for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, including adjustments for counties that have already received certain payments.
Potential Benefits
- Continued financial support for schools and community services in rural areas.
- Predictable funding for counties reliant on federal land revenues.
- Extension of authorities for special projects and county fund expenditure, enabling ongoing community development initiatives.
- Technical corrections to improve the clarity and implementation of the original Act.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for continued reliance on federal payments instead of developing diverse local revenue streams.
- The Act does not address long-term solutions for economic sustainability in rural communities.
- Possible inequities in payment distribution among different counties.
- The extension may delay more comprehensive reforms to federal land management and revenue sharing.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by providing funding for schools and community services. Congress has the power to dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2). The bill's provisions for payments to states and counties are within this constitutional authority.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).