This is an informational piece on the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 created by the Small School Districts’ Association in California. This document can be used as a model for advocacy work in your own state, or at the national level.
Background
The Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program was originally created in 2000 as a temporary solution to mitigate the loss of timber revenue affecting rural counties and schools. Despite multiple reauthorizations, SRS expired at the end of FY 2023, placing thousands of rural communities at risk. California’s small rural schools, many of which serve as community hubs providing not only education but also essential healthcare and emergency response services, are particularly vulnerable.
What’s at Stake?
- More than 4,000 school districts & 700+ counties nationwide rely on SRS funding.
- Some California districts have seen a 70%+ decline in SRS funding since 2004, forcing deep budget cuts.
- Loss of funding means layoffs, program reductions, and even school closures, disproportionately affecting rural students.
- Plumas Unified School District stands to lose over $960,000.00 in funding; Plumas County Office of Education $1.7 million.
- Trinity Alps Unified School District in California has seen its funding drop from $1.3 million in 2004 to just $525,000 in 2022, jeopardizing essential services.
- Mountain Valley Unified School District, serving just 340 students, risks major layoffs if SRS is not renewed, threatening the very survival of the local community.
Why Action is Urgent
- The Secure Rural Schools Act of 2025 (H.R. 1383 & Senate companion bill) extends critical funding for small rural schools through FY 2026.
- If Congress fails to act, districts will hit a financial ‘cliff’, losing essential funding just as pandemic relief dollars expire.
- Schools in rural California also serve as evacuation centers and provide critical mental health resources, making their funding vital for entire communities.
Action Needed
Pass the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 to ensure continued support for rural communities.
Request
✔ Cosponsor & support H.R. 1383 and the Senate companion bill.
✔ Advocate for long-term SRS funding solutions to prevent recurring budget crises.
✔ Ensure rural schools remain funded, operational, and able to serve their communities.
Contact
Sam Dorsey (Rep. LaMalfa’s Office): sam.dorsey@mail.house.gov
Abbie Callahan (Rep. Neguse’s Office): abbie.callahan@mail.house.gov