Good afternoon ASBCSD members:

In a major milestone for the nation's special districts, last week, the U.S. House Oversight and Accountability Committee approved the Special District Grant Accessibility Act. The bill (H.R. 7525), which is sponsored by Representatives Pat Fallon (R-TX) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), cleared the committee on an overwhelming 38-2 vote. To view the committee's action on H.R. 7525, please click here. 

The Special District Grant Accessibility Act embodies the National Special District Coalition’s longstanding legislative objective of codifying in federal law a first-ever, formal definition of “special district”. In addition to establishing such a definition, H.R. 7525 would direct federal agencies to recognize special districts as local governments for the purpose of ensuring that districts are eligible to receive appropriate forms of federal assistance, including funding and resources through key grant programs.

Looking ahead, the legislation is expected to be considered by the full House. As of this writing, it remains unclear when House leadership will schedule the bill for a floor vote.

In preparation for successful action on the floor, CSDA is calling upon special districts to reach out to their Representatives in Congress to urge them to cosponsor H.R. 7525.

Please use this Template Co-Sponsor Request Letter and this NSDC H.R. 7525 Fact Sheet to support your outreach and please CC advocacy@csda.net.

If you need help identifying your Congressional Representative, visit: Find Your Representative | house.gov.

CSDA is a founding member of NSDC. Special districts receive full benefit from NSDC’s advocacy and services through membership in CSDA.

Best,

Chris Palmer

Senior Public Affairs Field Coordinator