AASA Update: Forest Counties Monies Are Still in Play
American Association of School Administrators
As lawmakers feverishly work towards the end of the first session of the 110th Congress, the Secure Rural Schools and Communities Self Determination Act remains part of their unfinished business. This important funding for federal forest counties is on a one-year extension set to expire on Dec. 31, 2007. This leaves little time for Congress to find a solution before it adjourns.
Congressional supporters in both the House and the Senate continue to push for the passage of the five-year reauthorization. However, the challenge continues to be identifying offsets. With several vehicles still in play, such as the tax package and the energy legislation, there are still some options. Unfortunately, many national priorities are also angling to be included in these pieces of legislation.
At a minimum, we would expect that congressional champions would ensure at least another year-long extension of the current legislation. That will likely be their option of last resort. If this legislation has an impact on you, be sure to weigh in with your members of Congress and let them know you are counting on them to provide some certainty to your school district and community.
