Rural Health
News by Topic: Infrastructure
Jun 27, 2024 - Approximately 12% of people in Texas live in counties without a hazard mitigation plan, many of which are rural. Communities lacking plans are ineligible for federal disaster preparation funding, further widening the gap in infrastructure development between urban and rural communities.
Source: The Texas Tribune
Jun 25, 2024 - Announcement from the USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Rural Housing Service, and Rural Utilities Service of guarantee fee rates, guarantee percent for guaranteed loans, the periodic retention fee, and fees for the issuance of the loan note guarantee prior to construction completion for FY 2025 for the following loans programs: 1) Community Facilities, 2) Water and Waste Disposal (WWD), 3) Business and Industry, and 4) Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). These fees are effective on October 1, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Jun 12, 2024 - Summary of federal actions for the promotion of community development, including rural specific work. Highlights programs across the federal government working in capital funding for rural workforce training, housing, infrastructure, and more.
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Jun 10, 2024 - Announces a new initiative to create the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty that will work toward helping tribes manage their digital footprint. Notes the impact it could have on tribal economies, healthcare, and infrastructure. The center will support research and capacity building, manage data, offer technical assistance, and educate on internet networks.
Source: High Plains Public Radio
May 22, 2024 - Notice of final rule from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopting a Declaratory Ruling, Report and Order, Order, and Order on Reconsideration that reestablishes the FCC's authority over broadband internet access service (BIAS). Among other things, this rule reinstates the telecommunications service classification of BIAS under Title II of the Communications Act, which will enhance the FCC's ability to safeguard national security, advance public safety, protect consumers, and facilitate broadband deployment. This final rule is effective July 22, 2024, except for amendatory instruction 7, which is delayed indefinitely.
Source: Federal Register
May 14, 2024 - The Biden-Harris Administration announces a new Rural Innovators Initiative to highlight stories of extraordinary rural leaders who are ensuring their communities thrive for generations to come. Nominations close on Friday, June 14 at midnight EDT. The administration also announces over $671 million in new investments to strengthen rural infrastructure, by improving access to reliable electricity and clean drinking water, and creating good-paying jobs in rural communities.
Source: The White House
May 9, 2024 - Reports on recent legislation to expand the definition of "village" in Alaska in an effort to increase eligibility for infrastructure funding for small communities. Notes how rural is defined, the potential for increased competition for funds, and the need to include rural partners in the discussion.
Source: Alaska Beacon
DHS: Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA) Reporting Requirements; Extension of Comment Period
Federal Register
May 6, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is allowing an additional 30 days for comment on the April 4, 2024, proposed rule titled "Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA) Reporting Requirements." DHS is seeking comments on the practical and policy issues related to the implementation of regulations regarding covered cyber incident and ransom payment reporting requirements for covered entities, as required by the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022 (CIRCIA). Comments are now due July 3, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
May 6, 2024 - Highlights a Native-managed healthcare system part of the Navajo Nation in Arizona, discussing their expanded facility and services coming later this year. Discusses the impact of healthcare on local infrastructure, recruiting healthcare workforce, and rural community resilience.
Source: Cronkite News