Assemblymember Heather Hadwick is advocating for the reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act to aid struggling rural communities in California. She, along with other legislators, has sent a letter to federal lawmakers emphasizing the importance of this funding program, which has supported rural counties for over a century.
The Secure Rural Schools program was created to compensate California’s rural counties for tax revenue lost when they ceded forestland to the U.S. Forest Service for logging. In return, counties received a portion of logging profits to fund essential services such as schools, roads, and infrastructure. Currently, about 20 million acres, or 20 percent, of California’s land is federally owned. Without reauthorization, many rural communities could face severe repercussions.
Hadwick noted the program’s critical role in funding basic services, stating that nearly $40 million was paid to 39 counties last year, supporting schools, teachers, and infrastructure. Without this funding, rural schools might close, teachers could lose their jobs, and students, particularly in high-needs areas, could miss out on educational opportunities.
The program is also vital to California’s wildfire response efforts, as funds have historically been used for maintaining forest roads crucial for emergency response and fire management. With wildfires becoming more frequent and severe, especially in areas where wildland meets urban environments, these roads are essential for safeguarding lives and property.
Hadwick is calling on Congress to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act to ensure the survival of rural communities and schools throughout California.
