The Alaska State Legislature has passed a resolution urging the United States Congress and the President to reinstate the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000, which has been crucial for funding essential services in rural communities near national forests. This Act was originally established to compensate for the decline in revenue from timber harvesting on federal lands due to changes in land management policies. The resolution highlights the significant financial support provided by the Act, which amounted to $12.6 million in fiscal year 2023, benefiting various municipalities and educational areas in Alaska.

With the Act having lapsed as of January 2025 due to the failure of the House of Representatives to approve reauthorization, the resolution emphasizes the urgent need for retroactive reinstatement to alleviate budget shortfalls faced by rural communities. It calls for Congress to not only restore funding for fiscal year 2025 but also to consider making the funding mechanism permanent to ensure long-term stability for these areas. Additionally, the resolution encourages exploration of opportunities for responsible timber harvesting to support rural economic revitalization while promoting forest health.