LEGISLATIVE REPORT: RURAL AMERICA IN THE 21ST CENTURY

As we head into the 21st Century, our nation is in the midst of rapid social and economic change. Across many parts of rural America, people who once made their living on the land, in the forests and on the water, or in the manufacturing plants are now facing the toughest agricultural market in decades, misguided attempts to shut down responsible multiple use of our public lands, and increased competition abroad. And these changes have a ripple effect, impacting small family owned business operations and the ability of communities to finance local priorities such as schools, public safety and health.

At the beginning of this century, rural America was the center of American life. Today, however, many in rural America are choosing to uproot their lives to move to an urban or suburban location. Others do their best to start anew at home. But as more and more people do move away from their rural homes, their towns and villages lose both their population and a cherished way of life. I recently read a quote on one rural American's views on what it means to be a rural American. It's what she described as "rootedness." "It means you know the piece of land where you live, you know where your food comes from, you know where your grandparents lived. You have the ability to visit friends and family that you have known for a long time. You know where your home is.... It's about being rooted in a place and I think that has some value."

Those of us fortunate to live in Southern Missouri, and the 51 million Americans who live throughout rural America, know that there is a lot of value in our rural communities. Many Americans who live in urban or suburban areas may not realize just how important our rural communities are to them and to America. Our farming and ranching neighbors feed the country. Our small businesses and local employment is a critical engine of national growth. Our conservation and wise land use is important to the environment in which we live. Indeed, rural areas are not isolated pockets, they are tightly woven into the very fabric and design of our great nation.

I was recently asked the question, "Can the Heartland compete in a global economy?" My answer was a definitive "yes" without a question they can. I know that the people of Southern Missouri have strong work ethics and standards. They can accomplish anything and tackle any challenge that may stand before them. And I know that they feel strongly about wanting a hand UP -- not a hand out.

Rural Americans can solve their own problems if they have flexibility to make their own decisions and have access to the proper development tools. To successfully meet the demands of the 21st century, we need a new response to changing needs. We can begin to develop this new response at home by identifying the factors that may hinder our progress and taking steps to promote greater growth. In addition to local efforts, the federal government must do all it can to empower rural communities to develop themselves. In response to this need, I am in the process of renewing the Congressional Rural Caucus. As the chair of this revived caucus, I will work with my rural colleagues to ensure that the voice of rural America is heard loud and clear on Capitol Hill and that proactive steps are taken to secure the future of rural America.

Now is the time for action, the time to begin, in rural America and with rural Americans to build our future by laying down the infrastructure, diversifying our economic base and gaining access to capital to fuel continued growth, so that we may enhance the businesses we have and attract new businesses. And if we build it well, we can turn our challenges into bright opportunities for us and our children. If we build it well we can secure the future of rural America and the future of our home towns.