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Massachusetts needs a Rural Rescue Plan

As billions of dollars flow from federal relief funding provided by the CARES Act and the American Rescue Plan, now is the time for the Commonwealth to develop a Rural Rescue Plan to create a new future for cash-strapped rural communities.

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Our Rural Rescue Plan calls for:

  • Increased funding for the Chapter 90 program
  • Updated Chapter 90 funding formula
  • Creation of a public infrastructure agency
  • Continued investment in broadband internet

A 2021 study from the Auditor's Office shows why we need a Rural Rescue Plan.

Why we need a Rural Rescue Plan now 

Rural communities have been left without the tools to maintain public infrastructure for roadways, buildings and broadband as a result of declining population, geographic challenges, and a lack of overall resources. If not addressed, these issues will further exacerbate the state's east-west divide.

Bump Testifies in Support of Using Federal Funds for Public Infrastructure Needs 

On October 5, 2021, Auditor Bump testified before state lawmakers in support of her office's public infrastructure study findings and recommendations and called on state leaders to use federal funding to implement a Rural Rescue Plan.

Berkshire Eagle Praises Rural Rescue Plan 

From the Editorial Board: "We are glad that Ms. Bump is bringing long overdue statewide attention to these dire structural issues facing Berkshire communities and others. And, as she also points out, now is the time for long overdue state-level action."
Learn more about why we need a Rural Rescue Plan. 

Legislative Priorities

Bills Aim to Fix Urgent Needs of Municipalities 

State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump testifies before the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security in support of three bills that would a create a state-supported authority to assist in the construction or renovation of municipal and public safety buildings

From the Berkshires to Beacon Hill 

In November 2021, Auditor Bump talked with Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier about the #Rural Rescue Plan.

 

Bills aimed at creating a new building assistance authority. 

S. 2457 sponsored by Sen. Jo Commerford. Learn more here.

S. 2125 sponsored by Sen. Walter Timilty. Learn more here.

H. 3821 sponsored by Rep. Natalie Blais. Learn more here.

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