County Countdown – June 17, 2024

Every other week, NACo’s County Countdown reviews top federal policy advocacy items with an eye towards counties and the intergovernmental partnership.

Watch the video above and explore NACo resources below.

NACo 2024 Annual Conference

The 2024 NACo Annual Conference will include a focus on direct investments in counties through the annual appropriations process, now underway for 2025. Programming will highlight key areas like infrastructure, healthcare and economic development.

• State of play: Congress is currently in negotiations around funding for Fiscal Year 2025, so now is a great time for conference attendees to explore how federal funding can be effectively leveraged to address local needs and drive sustainable growth.
• Conference schedule: View the conference schedule for full details. 

Farm Bill Reauthorization

On NACo’s last County Countdown, we discussed efforts around reauthorizing the Farm Bill. Since then, there has been further movement, including positive signs for county priorities.

• Senate framework: Senate Agriculture Committee Republicans last week unveiled their framework for the 2024 Farm Bill.
• The county perspective: NACo reviewed major county priorities and secured key wins like increased funding for rural development and support for new farmers.

Health Services for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

In April, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) issued a draft policy for public comment on Community Health Centers (CHCs) and pre-release care.

• Why it matters: Providing health services 90 days before release benefits counties by improving care continuity and resource management.
• Sharing our voice: NACo submitted comments supporting enhanced access and continuity of care, urging inclusion of pre-trial detainees.

Electric Vehicle Charging Grants

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced the second round of funding for the Fueling Infrastructure grant program. Grants can be used to deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure on local roads, within publicly accessible community locations and along the National Highway System.

• How it works: Counties can apply for a share of the $1.3 billion grant for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. $520 million is reserved for applicants who were unsuccessful in the first round of funding, with a deadline of July 1. The final deadline for new applicants for the remaining $800 million is August 28.
• Learn more: View NACo’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding matrix for more information.

Water Resources Development Act

The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works passed the Water Resources and Development Act (WRDA) of 2024 with a unanimous bipartisan vote. The WRDA authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to pursue studies, projects and waterway improvements.

• Details from the bill: The 2024 bill focuses on implementing ongoing projects and authorizes $3 billion for feasibility studies and construction.
• Impact on counties: Provisions include improved project permit information, increased federal cost shares and enhanced support for non-federal sponsors.