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HR 1246

Investing in Rural America Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Mark Alford and 24 co-sponsors

HR 1246 boosts financial support for rural community facilities, enhancing access to healthcare, education, and safety services, while prioritizing local lending institutions.

Referred to the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit.
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Bill Summary · HR 1246

Summary of HR 1246: Investing in Rural America Act of 2025

Overview

The Investing in Rural America Act of 2025 (HR 1246) aims to amend the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to enhance financial support for essential community facilities in rural areas. This legislation seeks to address the critical need for healthcare, education, child care, public safety, and other vital services in underserved rural communities.

Key Provisions

  • Financial Support for Community Facilities:

    • The bill allows Farm Credit Banks, direct lender associations, and banks for cooperatives to provide loans and financial assistance for the development, maintenance, and improvement of essential community facilities.
    • Eligible projects must align with the criteria set forth in section 306(a) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act.

  • Eligibility for Financing:

    • Only entities that qualify for financing under section 306(a) can receive assistance under this bill.

  • Limitations on Financing:

    • The total financing or assistance provided by a Farm Credit System institution cannot exceed 15% of its total outstanding loans.

  • Offer Requirement:

    • Before providing financing, institutions must offer an interest in the financing to at least one domestic lending institution (excluding the Department of Agriculture) under reasonable terms.
    • Priority must be given to community banks located in the service area of the facility being financed.

  • Annual Reporting:

    • The Farm Credit Administration is required to submit an annual report to Congress detailing the activities undertaken by Farm Credit System institutions related to this section, including partnerships with other lending institutions.

Impact

  • Target Audience:

    • The bill primarily impacts rural communities and their residents by improving access to essential services. It also benefits local lending institutions, particularly community banks, by fostering partnerships and increasing financial opportunities.

  • Implementation Timeline:

    • The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Legislative Status

  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Current Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit on March 20, 2025, after initial referral to the House Committee on Agriculture.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by Michelle Fischbach and has multiple cosponsors, including:
- Robert J. Wittman
- Zachary Nunn
- Tony Wied
- Donald G. Davis
- Eric Sorensen
- Thomas P. Tiffany
- Tracey Mann
- Jill N. Tokuda
- Derrick Van Orden
- Sanford D. Bishop
- Brad Finstad
- David G. Valadao
- Nikki Budzinski
- Jasmine Crockett

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of HR 1246, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, potential impact, and current legislative status, making it accessible for both experts and general readers interested in rural development initiatives.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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