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By: @Kyle Packham 

Over 200 special districts and other organizations have responded to CSDA’s H.R. 7525 Call to Action. Visit csda.net/GrantAccessibility to learn more and join our growing coalition. Those interested in signing-on, must authorize joining the CSDA coalition letter no later than Friday, April 5.

As previously reported, the Special District Grant Accessibility Act was approved by the U.S. House Oversight and Accountability Committee on March 7. The bipartisan legislation (H.R. 7525), which is sponsored by Representatives Pat Fallon (R-TX) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), cleared the committee on an overwhelming 38-2 vote. 

The Special District Grant Accessibility Act embodies the National Special Districts Coalition's (NSDC) longstanding objective of codifying in federal law a first-ever, formal definition of special district. In addition to establishing such a definition, H.R. 7525 would direct federal agencies to recognize special districts as local governments for the purpose of ensuring that districts are eligible to receive appropriate forms of federal assistance, including funding and resources through key grant programs.

Looking ahead, the sponsors of H.R. 7525, along with Oversight and Accountability Committee staff, will continue to work with House leadership to identify a suitable date for the legislation to be considered on the House floor. In the meantime, special districts are encouraged to continue to reach out to their House delegation members to urge them to cosponsor the bill.

As of this writing, California Representatives David Valadao (R-21st District) and Katie Porter (D-47th District) have formally cosponsored H.R. 7525. CSDA has received positive indications from several other members of the California Congressional Delegation and, with the help of CSDA member outreach, we look forward to adding to this number.

CALL TO ACTION

In preparation for successful action on the House Floor, CSDA is calling all special districts to reach out to their Representatives in Congress to urge them to support H.R. 7525. 

• No later than April 5, 2024, please Authorize Joining CSDA Coalition Letter through our Take Action Page at csda.net/GrantAccessibility and CSDA will include your organization on our Coalition Letter; OR
• Download the Sample Support Letter and send to your local Congressional Representative(s)

If you need help identifying or contacting your Congressional Representative, visit: Find Your Representative | house.gov or contact your CSDA Public Affairs Field coordinator: csda.net/pafc.