hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Reauthorizes and expands rural economic development grant program.
Senators Welch and Gillibrand introduced it.
Introduced in Senate, referred to committee.
This bill, known as the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Reauthorization Act of 2026, would reauthorize and expand a grant program that supports economic development in rural areas. It changes criteria for grants, focusing on broader economic opportunities rather than specific 'industry clusters,' and directs more funding towards very small rural communities. The bill was introduced by Senators Welch and Gillibrand and is currently being considered by the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.
Introduced Feb 12, 2026
The bill, S. 3861, was introduced in the Senate on February 12, 2026. It has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry for review. For it to become law, it must pass through this committee, be voted on and passed by the full Senate, then pass the House of Representatives, and finally be signed by the President.
If this bill becomes law, the RISE grant program would be reauthorized, making $50 million available annually from 2027 to 2031 for projects supporting economic growth in rural areas. A portion of these grants would be specifically targeted at smaller rural communities, with an emphasis on those under 20,000 residents and at least 10% for communities under 10,000. This could lead to a wider variety of new businesses, job training, or infrastructure improvements in diverse rural communities.
Supporters Say
Supporters would argue this bill provides crucial funding and updated criteria to boost economic growth and job creation in struggling rural areas.
Critics Say
Critics might question the effectiveness of such grant programs or advocate for different approaches to rural economic development.
As the bill has just been introduced, specific public debate has not yet formed. However, discussions around similar bills often revolve around the most effective ways to allocate funds for rural development and ensure equitable distribution across different community types, as well as the overall impact of such programs on local economies.