Rural Prosperity Act Pt 1
I’m Bob Larson. It’s called the Rural Prosperity Act and it’s a measure that would trim some of the fat from the bureaucracy that is the federal government and help rural America with federal programs at the same time.
The one-stop shopping measure was introduced by U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse who I asked, are there too many cooks in the kitchen? …
NEWHOUSE … “That’s a good way to put it. You know, over the years there’s been a lot of effort to do things to benefit rural America, which is a good thing. But, you’re absolutely right, there’s no coordinated, streamlined effort system for people to be able to see what’s available and where it’s available.”
What it comes down to, Newhouse says is the system is just far too complicated …
NEWHOUSE … “There’s something like 400 different federal programs that are focused on helping rural communities. They’re spread across over a dozen different agencies, all over the place where it’s really hard to find the assistance that the community or folks living in rural areas may be looking for.”
So, Newhouse says let’s try and simplify the process …
NEWHOUSE … “This legislation is an effort to streamline that, to literally cut the bureaucratic red tape.”
Newhouse says establishing an office of Rural Prosperity would not only ensure Rural America has a seat at the table, but boost local economies nationwide.
Tune in tomorrow for more.
