In a major milestone for the nation's special districts, last week, the House Oversight and Accountability Committee approved the Special District Grant Accessibility Act. The bill (H.R. 7525), which is sponsored by Representatives Pat Fallon (R-TX) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), cleared the committee on an overwhelming 38-2 vote. To view the committee's action on H.R. 7525, please click here. The discussion on the bill begins at the 1:28:35 mark.

The Special District Grant Accessibility Act embodies NSDC's longstanding legislative objective of codifying in federal law a first-ever, formal definition of special district. In addition to establishing such a definition, H.R. 7525 would direct federal agencies to recognize special districts as local governments for the purpose of ensuring that districts are eligible to receive appropriate forms of federal assistance, including funding and resources through key grant programs.

Looking ahead, the legislation is expected to be considered by the full House. As of this writing, it remains unclear when House leadership will schedule the bill for a floor vote. In the meantime, special districts are encouraged to reach out to their House delegation members to urge them to cosponsor H.R. 7525.