Rural Utilities Service Modernization Act

Key Points

• The bill requires the Department of Agriculture to build a website where rural communities can track their utility projects. This includes projects for electricity, water, and high-speed internet. Users will be able to see exactly where their project stands in the review process and when it might be finished.
• Small towns and rural groups that cannot afford the early costs of planning a project can apply for new grants. These grants cover up to 75 percent of the costs for things like studies to see if a project is possible and environmental permits. This helps projects get started even if the local community has limited funds.
• The Rural Utilities Service must move all grant applications online within two years. If a community cannot use the internet to apply, the agency must provide another way for them to submit their paperwork. This is meant to make the process faster and more organized.
• The bill sets aside $30 million to build and run the new tracking website through 2035. It also authorizes $15 million each year for the new planning grants. The goal is to make sure federal money for rural infrastructure is used more efficiently and projects are not stuck in paperwork for years.

Impact Analysis

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