Rep. Kevin Kiley Addresses Key County Issues at CSAC Legislative Conference

Congressman Kevin Kiley (CA-3) spoke to hundreds of county officials and community leaders during an interview with CSAC President and Inyo County Supervisor Jeff Griffiths on the second day of CSAC’s three-day Legislative Conference. Kiley, whose district includes all or part of 10 counties spanning from Sacramento to Inyo, shared important federal updates and policy priorities relevant to California counties. 

Kiley began by highlighting the benefits of increasing local control over funding streams for homelessness and education. He argued that local governments are best positioned to address these challenges effectively.  

Additionally, he stressed his support for renewing the Secure Rural Schools program, which expired in 2023. Created in 2000, this program provides financial assistance to rural counties and school districts impacted by decreased timber sales on federally owned lands. Kiley highlighted ongoing efforts in Congress to reauthorize this vital funding source. 

He also emphasized the need for adequate funding for Proposition 36, which has implemented stricter penalties and expanded treatment options for certain drug and theft offenses in California. 

The discussion briefly touched on the federal debate over proposed Medicaid cuts. Congress is considering significant reductions as part of broader budget negotiations. Kiley emphasized the need for reforms to make Medicaid more efficient and effective for all Californians. 

Finally, Kiley stressed the urgent need for forest management reform. He highlighted the importance of protecting and maintaining grant funding for local fire safe councils, which play a critical role in wildfire prevention. He underscored the need to reduce wait times for FEMA claim resolutions and disaster relief funding, noting that delays hinder recovery efforts for affected communities. 

Kiley is co-sponsoring the Fix Our Forests Act, introduced earlier this year in the House. The legislation aims to improve forest health, reduce wildfire risks, and streamline critical forest management projects while maintaining environmental standards. 

Throughout the discussion with Kiley, President Griffiths underscored key county priorities related to disaster response and recovery, federal funding, and more. 

The conversation was the latest CSAC effort to engage with California’s congressional delegation. Earlier this year, CSAC leaders met with Sens. Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, several congressional offices and the White House during NACo’s annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC.