The County Countdown – October 23, 2023

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 and explore NACo resources below on some of the top issues we're covering this week. 

2024 Appropriations

NACo urges Congress to finalize fiscal year 2024 appropriations without delay, to stave off a potential government shutdown.

• Making our voice heard: NACo sent a letter to congressional leadership detailing county priorities. 
• Areas of emphasis include: 
  • Funding for behavioral and mental health programs
  • The Community Development Block Grant program, HOME Investment Partnerships, and the Affordable Connectivity program
  • Election security grants via the Help America Vote Act, and
  • Full support for Payments in Lieu of Taxes and the extension of Secure Rural Schools.

Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) Symposium 

The LUCC Symposium, held this month in Orange County, Fla., offered a productive platform for county officials and our partners.

• County-led solutions: The symposium featured in-depth dialogues on disaster readiness and response, housing affordability, mental and behavioral health, and artificial intelligence.
• Survey: Were you there? Share your thoughts in the attendee survey! 

Federal Grants

NACo supports the bipartisan Streamlining Federal Grants Act, introduced last month. The bill would facilitate more straightforward grant application processes for counties.

• Key takeaway: The legislation tasks the Office of Management and Budget with guiding federal agencies towards streamlined grant application processes.
• Support for counties: The legislation includes a special focus on aiding counties, particularly rural counties, in accessing grant opportunities.

Black Maternal and Infant Mortality

On October 16, NACo hosted an event on disproportionate Black maternal and infant mortality rates.

• A collaborative effort: County leaders, federal officials and thought partners identified actionable policy solutions to address this public health crisis.
• Catch up: Watch the recording here. 

2024 NACo Legislative Conference

The 2024 NACo Legislative Conference is scheduled for February 10-13 in Washington, D.C. 

• Join your peers: The conference convenes nearly 2,000 county officials to tackle federal policy matters impacting counties and citizens. 
• Highlights: This year’s conference will include policy sessions, opportunities to engage with members of Congress, and robust interactions with federal agency representatives. 
• Register today to secure early bird rates and hotel availability.