Committee advances bill setting rural-county population threshold at 45,000 for grants and loans
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Summary
Substitute Senate Bill 6149, which sets the definition of a "rural county" at a population threshold of 45,000 for eligibility in certain grants and loans, was reported out of committee with a do-pass recommendation by a 10–0 vote (3 excused). Sponsors said the fixed threshold matters for rural funding programs and should be periodically reviewed.
Substitute Senate Bill 6149 was reported out of the Technology, Economic Development and Veterans Committee with a do-pass recommendation after members described the measure as important to preserve rural eligibility for state programs.
Vice Chair Clobba moved to report SB 6149 out of committee with a do-pass recommendation. Representative Penner, offering final passage comments, said the bill moves the definition of "rural county" to a threshold of 45,000 people and stressed that the threshold is important for grants and loans where eligibility depends on that designation; Penner recommended periodic review of the threshold as the state's population grows.
Members supported the bill; the committee conducted an oral/roll-call vote. Staff announced 10 ayes, 0 nays, and 3 excused. With that tally, SB 6149 was reported out of committee with a do-pass recommendation and will advance for further consideration by the full chamber.
