The Rural Readiness Program bill is advancing this session. The bill, supported by MACo, aims to strengthen rural economic development capacity and improve access to competitive funding opportunities.
SB 300 and its cross-file HB 461 have both passed their respective chamber and appear to be advancing this session. This bill establishes the Rural Readiness Program and the Rural Maryland Capacity Building Fund, both administered by the Rural Maryland Council. The bill is designed to help rural communities better prepare for and compete for economic development funding by strengthening planning efforts and project readiness.
The Rural Readiness Program will assist eligible applicants, including local governments, in strengthening grant applications, developing viable projects, and preparing communities for future investment. By prioritizing grant awards for entities that complete the program, the bill incentivizes thoughtful planning and ensures that limited resources are directed toward projects with a higher likelihood of success.
Additionally, the Rural Maryland Capacity Building Fund supports collaborative planning and implementation efforts across key areas such as housing, broadband expansion, infrastructure, workforce development, site readiness, and feasibility studies. These investments reflect the core challenges counties face in building a foundation for sustainable economic growth.
SB 300 has passed the Senate and is now before the House Economic Matters Committee. Its cross-file, HB 461, has passed the House and is now before the Senate Finance Committee.
MACo supports SB 300/HB 461 because it equips counties, particularly in rural areas, with the tools and resources needed to pursue economic development opportunities more effectively. By improving local capacity and readiness, the bill helps ensure that rural jurisdictions can compete for funding, attract investment, and foster long-term economic vitality.
