County Countdown – Jan. 8, 2024

Every other week, NACo’s County Countdown reviews top federal policy advocacy items with an eye towards counties and the intergovernmental partnership. In this week’s edition – our last County Countdown of the year – we are looking ahead to 2024, and some of the top policy issues for counties.

Watch the video above and explore NACo resources below.

1. Government Funding

Congressional leaders have reached a bipartisan agreement to avert a potential government shutdown.

• New development: The deal, reached over the weekend, closely adheres to the spending limits for defense and domestic programs established by Congress in a bill to extend the debt ceiling through 2025.
• Key dates: Without passing legislation to codify a deal, funding is set to expire on January 19 and February 2, 2024.
• Stay tuned: NACo will continue to monitor and report on any developments pertaining to government funding with a focus on its impact on county priorities.

2. American Rescue Plan Updates

NACo and other local partners submitted comments in response to the U.S. Treasury’s Interim Final Rule to amend the definition of "obligation" for the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

• Raised concerns: NACo is voicing county concerns regarding fund obligations, payroll cost definitions and new expenditure estimate requirements.
• Anticipating the Final Rule: We will provide comprehensive analysis and updates as soon as the final rule is released.
• Explore NACo's full ARPA hub here.

3. The SUPPORT Act

Following Congress's missed deadline for reauthorization, counties need sustained support for substance use disorder treatment and recovery services under the 2018 SUPPORT Act.

• Legislative inaction: Key provisions of the policy have expired, and new legislation is needed to address the ongoing overdose crisis.
• Counties' crucial role: Counties remain essential in enhancing treatment and recovery services.

4. Implementing 9-8-8 – The Suicide And Crisis Lifeline

The Local 9-8-8 Response Act of 2023 introduced by the Senate Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus aims to strengthen the connection to mental health professionals and ensure user privacy.

• County involvement: Counties play a key role in providing comprehensive behavioral health care and support systems.
• Legislative focus: The new bill emphasizes efficient crisis response and the protection of user privacy.
• Explore NACo’s 9-8-8 Toolkit for Counties to learn more.

5. NACo 2024 Legislative Conference

NACo's upcoming conference, Feb. 10-13, is a unique opportunity for county officials to address federal policy issues and strengthen intergovernmental partnerships with Congress and federal agencies.

• Engagement: Network with members of the 118th Congress and federal agency officials.
• Policy discussions: Delve into key federal issues impacting counties and our residents.
• Visit the Legislative Conference homepage to learn more and register today.