WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressmen Tony Gonzales (TX-23) and Don Davis (NC-01) introduced bipartisan legislation to provide increased technical assistance for rural communities. The Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide technical assistance to strengthen local capacity and improve access to rural development programs for rural areas directly or through cooperative agreements.

“Far too often, rural communities are left out of the picture when it comes to access to federal development programs and grants. One of my top priorities in Congress is to get funding out of Washington and back into South and West Texas communities,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales. “The Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act will provide technical assistance for applicants and improve access to rural development programs to help deliver funding back to Texas and rural communities across the country.”

“Historically, eastern North Carolina communities and local organizations have faced many challenges in receiving the same level of support as others across the state and the country,” said Congressman Don Davis. "As a former mayor of a small town, I've witnessed firsthand that obtaining federal grants and technical assistance for community development is no easy task. Strengthening collaboration with USDA Rural Development is crucial to ensuring these communities receive the support they need, and the bipartisan Rural Uplift and Revitalization Assistance Act stands as a vital solution, offering essential assistance and recognizing local partners as invaluable allies in uplifting rural communities."