Central ND News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer and leaders of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee have introduced the Economic Development Reauthorization Act of 2024, aimed at reauthorizing the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to better support economic growth in distressed communities across the country.

Cramer emphasized the importance of updating the agency's mission and funding levels, stating, "This bill provides critical updates to the agency's programs and initiatives and will better support EDA's mission to facilitate locally-driven economic growth."

Senator Shelley Moore Capito highlighted the significance of the EDA in driving investment and job creation in West Virginia, expressing her excitement for the bipartisan legislation that will preserve locally-driven economic development decisions.

Chairman Tom Carper underscored the role of the EDA in supporting job growth and investing in local economies, stating, "Reauthorizing the EDA will give this critical agency the tools and resources it needs to better support local businesses and organizations."

Senator Mark Kelly emphasized the broad impact of the bipartisan bill, stating, "Our bill will help communities in every corner of the country thrive," and noting the input received from various stakeholders in crafting the legislation.

The bill includes provisions to address challenges faced by rural communities, authorize funding for various EDA grant programs, set investment priorities, and establish new offices within the EDA to assist tribal communities and administer disaster recovery assistance. Additionally, the legislation mandates reports to evaluate the effectiveness of EDA programs and streamline grant application processes.

The proposed legislation aims to update funding levels, prioritize infrastructure projects, support workforce development, and ensure that the EDA is equipped to meet the evolving economic challenges and opportunities facing communities nationwide.