Doug LaMalfa

Stories

Congress moves to revive secure rural schools after 2023 funding cliff

As of May 2026: Deceased; led House SRS reauthorization until his death on January 6, 2026

President Donald Trump signed the Secure Rural Schools reauthorization into law on December 18, 2025, ending a two-year funding cliff that had devastated more than 700 forested counties. The bill directs the USDA Forest Service to deliver retroactive payments for FY2024 and FY2025 within 45 days of enactment—by early February 2026—and extends the program through FY2026. Counties that had cut sheriffs' patrols, closed schools, and delayed road repairs are now budgeting for an influx of roughly $280 million per year.

Updated May 10

Notable Quotes

“For rural counties, including those in my own district, Secure Rural Schools funding is essential.”

from Congress moves to revive secure rural schools after 2023 funding cliff · Updated May 10

"For rural counties, including those in my own district, Secure Rural Schools funding is essential."

from Congress moves to revive secure rural schools after 2023 funding cliff · Updated May 10

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez called LaMalfa "a friend and ally on western natural resources" following his death.

from Congress moves to revive secure rural schools after 2023 funding cliff · Updated May 10