NSDA’s Advocacy Committee reviewed ways to strengthen the organization’s process for evaluating federal legislation and establishing advocacy positions, with a focus on greater clarity and consistency.

The committee recommended that NSDA support three federal bills focused on disaster preparedness and rural revitalization, including the Revitalize Rural America Act (H.R. 10508), which addresses rural workforce needs and grant-writing assistance, and the Community Disaster Protection Act (H.R. 10686), which focuses on disaster-related insurance and community protection.

These proposals align with NSDA’s priorities to strengthen rural communities and recognize the essential role special districts play in emergency preparedness, disaster response, and recovery. The committee also recommended support for a third bill discussed during the meeting.

The committee will work with NSDA’s federal advocacy partners to communicate these positions to congressional offices, develop talking points highlighting special districts’ contributions, and formalize NSDA’s legislative review and position-setting process. The bills are expected to be reintroduced in the 120th Congress.