Rep. Miller Introduces the Rural Jobs Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) introduced the Rural Jobs Act which will create a focused New Market Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation of $1 billion over the years of 2023 and 2024 for impoverished rural communities in America. 
 
“With the largest city in West Virginia qualifying as a Rural Jobs Zone, I know how impactful the Rural Jobs Act will be on Americans in rural communities," said Congresswoman Miller. “This bill will create jobs and opportunities for rural Americans through a tax credit which will boost investment through public-private partnerships in the communities that need it most. Americans who don’t live in big cities are often neglected, but with this bill, rural communities become a priority. I am honored to lead on this legislation and fight for resources for all Americans, regardless of where they live.”

“The New Market Tax Credit is a lifeline for rural communities across the country and right here in Alabama’s 7th District, spurring much needed investment and creating good-paying jobs in regions that need them most,” Representative Sewell said. “By expanding the NMTC, the Rural Jobs Act recognizes the promise and the potential of some of our most underserved communities, which is why I am proud to serve as the Democratic lead as we introduce this critical legislation. This is one more step toward ensuring that our rural, underserved communities in the Black Belt and throughout Alabama are not left behind.”
 
This legislation has been previously introduced by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO) and Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL), Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Mike Braun (R-IN), and John Boozman (R-AR) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
 
Background:

• The Rural Jobs Act will require that at least 25% of Rural Jobs Zone investments are being made in counties with persistent poverty and high rural migration. 

• A city or town with a population of less than 50,000 people and isn’t near an urbanized area is considered as a Rural Jobs Zone. The largest city in West Virginia consists of 48,000 people. 

• Rural Jobs Zone investments will be allocated into investment projects to improve rural communities and strengthen the rural economy.

Click here for bill text.

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