Dear Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, Majority Leader Schumer and Leader McConnell,
On behalf of the National Conference of State Legislatures, the bipartisan organization representing the legislatures of our nation's states, territories and commonwealths, we urge you to include the following priorities in the final fiscal year 2025 appropriations package or any other must-pass legislative package. Each bill highlighted below has enormous implications for the ability of states to secure the health, well-being and safety of their communities.
Farm Bill Reauthorization
Extends vital programs that support agricultural, food and nutrition programs as well as rural economic development, infrastructure, wildfire mitigation and more.
Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Fund
Replenishes the DRF, which estimates say will be depleted by Dec. 20, to ensure the continued availability of assistance to states and territories in recovering from large-scale disasters in a manner that prioritizes climate resiliency. Additionally, NCSL strongly opposes the EQUIP Act, which would establish a "disaster deductible" that states would have to pay each year before being eligible for FEMA funds.
Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2023
Extends funding for state maternal mortality review committees that analyze pregnancy-related deaths and make recommendations to prevent future deaths; requires the CDC to disseminate best practices.
Reauthorization of the Community Health Center Fund
Extends critical funding to community health centers, which provide health care to millions of patients in medically underserved areas or to medically underserved populations regardless of ability to pay.
Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2024
Extends and expands important programs to reduce recidivism, such as investing in community services and enhancing addiction treatment services and promotes public safety.
The Water Resources Development Act
Authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects, studies and programs across the country that include water infrastructure projects, flood management, ecosystem restoration, disaster resiliency and outdoor recreation.
As the 118th Congress draws to a close, we look forward to continuing to partner with you in the important work made possible by these critical reauthorizations.
Sincerely,
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Wayne Harper
NCSL President
President Pro Tempore
Utah Senate
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Brian Patrick Kennedy
NCSL President Emeritus
Speaker Pro Tempore
Rhode Island House of Representatives
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Marcus C. Evans, Jr.
NCSL President Elect
Assistant Majority Leader
Illinois General Assembly
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Barry Usher
NCSL Vice President
Majority Whip
Montana Senate