Kiley-Backed Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Restores Millions for Rural California Schools

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House voted overwhelmingly to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which is proudly cosponsored by Congressman Kevin Kiley (R-CA). SRS provides essential funding to public schools in rural communities across the United States, including those in California’s Third Congressional District.

The SRS program was created in 2000 to offset revenue losses for counties containing large areas of National Forest land, where timber sales have been dropping. These declines have directly impacted several rural counties in Congressman Kiley’s district, where local school budgets are heavily reliant on this federal support.

“For our rural communities, the Secure Rural Schools program is not optional; it is essential,” said Rep. Kiley. “These funds keep teachers in classrooms, maintain critical services, and ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education. I’m proud that the House has acted to fully restore this support, and I will continue fighting to make sure our rural counties are never left behind.”

The most recent congressional authorization for the SRS program expired in September 2023, leaving a significant funding gap. Without reauthorization, counties in California’s Third District were set to receive just $4.49 million, a sharp drop from the $8.59 million they would receive under the fully funded SRS program, a shortfall of more than $4 million that would jeopardize the quality of education and essential services in rural schools.

Click here to watch Rep. Kiley’s House floor remarks.

Click here to learn more about the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act.

Rep. Kiley serves on the Education Committee, chairs the Subcommittee on K–12 Education, and is a former teacher.

###