Kamala Harris’ Plan for Rural America Support Unveiled
TL/DR –
Vice President Kamala Harris has detailed plans to support rural communities in America, promising significant federal funding and the expansion of small business financing. The Harris-Walz campaign also aims to invest in rural technical and higher education programs and create contract opportunities for smaller businesses in rural areas. Other plans include giving the Federal Trade Commission more authority to prevent consolidation in the food industry and bringing more funding towards the Rural Partners Network, which helps rural communities access federal funds and opportunities.
Vice President Harris Pledges Significant Federal Support for Rural America
Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has unveiled plans to bolster rural America. This includes substantial federal funding for rural communities, enhancing small business financing, and investing in rural education programs.
The Harris-Walz campaign warns of former President Trump’s policies’ detrimental impact on rural America, promising to counter these effects by increasing access to funding and federal aid for these communities.
They aim to amplify the Treasury Department’s State Small Business Credit Initiative, focusing on rural entrepreneurs and underserved communities. Investments in rural education and fostering connections between small businesses and rural high schools are also on the agenda.
A key part of their strategy is channeling more funds towards the Rural Partners Network (RPN), launched by the Biden-Harris administration. RPN aids rural communities in accessing federal funds and helps local leaders navigate federal programs.
Harris has also announced plans to increase contract opportunities for small rural businesses and enhance the Federal Trade Commission’s authority to prevent food industry consolidation, which can negatively impact farmers and consumers.
Harris and her running mate have strong ties with rural voters and agricultural states, as highlighted in a document first reported by Politico. They understand that the success of rural America is pivotal for the nation’s prosperity.
The document criticizes Trump’s policies, alleging they favored corporate agribusinesses over family farms and decreased funding for essential housing and food programs in rural communities.
Governor Walz’s substantial contribution to federal investment in rural America, through his role in drafting the 2008, 2014, and 2018 Farm Bills, is also highlighted. Walz has extended veterans’ access to farming resources and improved veteran healthcare during his time in Congress.
Harris has expanded healthcare and disability benefits for veterans in rural areas through the PACT Act, signed by President Biden in 2022. This act specifically benefits veterans exposed to harmful toxins during their service.
The Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to improve rural communities are cited. They have increased access to naloxone, the opioid overdose reversal drug, and upped funding for rural hospitals. This is of crucial importance as over 100 rural hospitals closed between 2013 and 2020, complicating healthcare accessibility for rural residents.
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