Strengthening Rural Development

Issue:
Elected, civic and business leaders must continue to seek ways to stimulate rural jobs and economic growth to sustain rural communities and the surrounding farms.

Background:
The landscape of rural America is changing. The average age in rural communities is increasing, while these same communities are experiencing an outbound migration of younger generations in search of better educational and job opportunities. Many communities that once were vibrant now need assistance to maintain quality schools, medical facilities and essential infrastructure.

American agriculture is also changing. Still a key component of rural communities, agriculture as an industry is becoming more reliant on the greater rural economy than rural communities are dependent on farmers. Averaged across all farms, 89 percent of farm income now comes from off-farm sources.

Legislative History:
According to the Congressional Research Service, more than 80 rural development programs are operated by 16 federal agencies. More than half are managed through the Agriculture Department’s (USDA) Rural Development (RD) program as authorized by the farm bill, but they are funded annually through the appropriations process.

Farm Bureau Policy:
Strengthening rural communities is a priority for Farm Bureau. Farm Bureau supports the following initiatives to maintain and revitalize rural America:

• Economic Development - Value-added agriculture, competitive tax and regulatory incentives, expansion of the renewable fuels industry, and USDA rural development programs all offer opportunities to stimulate job creation and enhance rural incomes.

• Strengthening Education - Rural children deserve equal access to the educational opportunities afforded their urban and suburban counterparts. The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act should be reauthorized and adequately funded. Farm Bureau also supports other initiatives, such as longdistance learning, to strengthen the foundation of rural educational systems.

• Community Infrastructure - Rural communities face significant challenges in handling their infrastructure needs and adapting to new technologies. Broadband Internet access must be extended to rural areas. Farm Bureau also supports the Universal Service Fund to assist in providing affordable communication services. Maintaining essential infrastructure, like roads, utilities, waterways and competitive rail systems, is critical.

• Health Care - More doctors and medical facilities are needed to serve the residents of rural America. Farm Bureau supports initiatives, including telemedicine, to provide better access to medical professionals and facilities in rural areas.