Unfortunately, due to an error in the 2017 tax law, the tax treatment of rural electric cooperatives is put at risk when using federal grants or assistance; for example, in the wake of a natural disaster or working to expand rural broadband. Electric cooperatives continue to serve the needs of their 42 million member-owners across rural America, and this legislation is critical to ensuring they can continue to do so.
“By amending the tax code to allow cooperatives to access certain government grants and assistance while maintaining the current tax treatment, you continue the legacy of policymakers empowering citizens to use the cooperative business model to serve the community and grow the economy,” NCBA CLUSA president and CEO Doug O’Brien said in the letter.
NCBA CLUSA appreciates the leadership of Sen. Portman and Smith and Reps. Sewell and Smith, and urges Congress to swiftly pass this important legislation.
Contact your elected officials and urge them to support the RURAL Act, too! Visit www.ncbaclusa.coop/advocacy/get-involved/ or email advocacy@ncba.coop for more information.