Many North State schools may not receive funding they've relied on for decades, potentially creating significant budget shortfalls.
Over the weekend, President Donald Trump signed a federal spending bill, outlining where money will be directed over the next six months. Many programs and grants were removed from the budget in the months leading up to its signing, including funds from the Secure Rural Schools Act.
Historically, Secure Rural Schools Act funding has helped subsidize the budgets of school districts with a lot of federal land. That’s because federally owned land can't be developed or taxed like commercial land, which leads to less revenue for schools in the area that rely on funding from property taxes.
But the funds were removed by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson in December.
With the passing of the spending bill, many rural schools will face a budget shortfall.
Nearly all North State counties receive Secure Rural Schools Act funding. Plumas, Trinity and Siskiyou all received more than $3 million last year.
Congressman Doug LaMalfa, who represents many North State counties, has proposed a bill to reauthorize the funds.
"We're pursuing every avenue to get it passed," said Paige Boogaard, communications director for LaMalfa's office. "Whether as a standalone bill or as part of a larger legislative package."
According to a statement, LaMalfa’s office is working with leadership in the House of Representatives to expedite the bill.
