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Rural Health Information Hub
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Rural Health
News by Topic: Infrastructure

Oct 31, 2024 - Announces a partnership between federal agencies and the National Rural Water Association for a 1 year study on cybersecurity for rural water systems. The study will identify areas for improvement, guidance on cyber-support programs, and offer training on cybersecurity issues.
Source: Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture
Oct 27, 2024 - Describes lack of access to running water and electricity in some parts of the Navajo Nation, and the impacts on health and other aspects of life. Details federally-funded efforts to extend power lines and improve connectivity, which have faced challenges related to the rugged landscape and the large size of the Navajo Nation.
Source: Associated Press
Oct 24, 2024 - Highlights challenges faced by a rural Kansas community in their efforts to address nitrate contamination in drinking water. Notes that agricultural practices and sandy soil have led to dangerous increases in nitrate levels over recent decades. Describes efforts to obtain funding for a new water treatment center and to increase testing of private wells.
Source: KCUR
Oct 18, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS) is accepting applications for grants under the Rural Business Development Grant Program for fiscal year 2025. Applications that will help rural communities recover economically; ensure all rural residents have equitable access to USDA Rural Development (RD) programs and benefits from RD funded projects; and reduce climate pollution and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change through economic support are encouraged. Applications are due by February 28, 2025.
Source: Federal Register
Oct 11, 2024 - Notice of final rule from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Service (RUS) updating the Water and Environmental Programs' (WEP) Technical Assistance Grants regulation. This rule updates the audit and financial statement language to align with the Office of Management and Budgets (OMB) 2024 revisions. This rule is effective October 11, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Oct 9, 2024 - Highlights a Texas initiative expanding broadband access in rural areas. Notes the role of broadband in for healthcare, workforce, and education needs. Discusses funding and infrastructure challenges.
Source: KERA News
Oct 3, 2024 - Discusses efforts to install more full-size changing tables for people with disabilities in public bathrooms across the country. Highlights the impacts of a new full-size changing table installed at a rest stop in rural Iowa, and notes that the need for such amenities is often greater in rural areas. Explores factors contributing to the recent uptick in full-size changing table installations, including advocacy efforts, state legislation, and funding from state governments.
Source: KFF Health News
Oct 2, 2024 - Announces funding for 116 projects in 30 states to improve access to a clean, reliable electric grid, safe drinking water, and jobs for rural and tribal residents.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Sep 30, 2024 - Notice of final rule from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS), Rural Housing Service (RHS), and Rural Utilities Service (RUS) making necessary revisions to the policy and procedures which will strengthen oversight and management of the growing Community Facilities (CF), Water and Waste Disposal (WWD), Business and Industry (B&I), and Rural Energy for America (REAP) guarantee portfolios. Comments are due by October 30, 2024. This rule is effective November 29, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Sep 22, 2024 - Highlights challenges with cell phone service across rural Colorado. Discusses the implications for emergency services, the cost of increasing coverage, and policy solutions being discussed.
Source: KUNC