Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) successfully passed a bipartisan amendment to provide an additional $3 million in funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) in a Consolidated Omnibus Appropriations Bill. The NBRC provides federal funding towards specific state economic and community development projects in rural parts of the Northeast. Last year, as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, Kuster helped to increase funding for the NBRC and expand its range into Cheshire and Belknap counties.

“The Northern Border Regional Commission has a proven track record of delivering for some of the most underserved communities in our state,” said Kuster. “NBRC aims to create jobs and expand economic opportunity in rural areas and utilize federal funds to partner with towns and non-profits across New Hampshire. These NBRC grants have allowed for the expansion of business enterprises in rural communities and funded projects that bolster rural infrastructure, support veteran housing and combat the opioid epidemic. This is a worthwhile, smart, and strategic use of federal funds to encourage economic and community development.”

As a member of the Farm Bill Conference Committee and Agriculture Committee last Congress, Kuster advocated for the inclusion of language to strengthen and expand the Northern Border Regional Commission and has been a leader in the effort to protect the NBRC, which has been targeted for elimination by President Trump. Kuster has led a bipartisan fight in support of funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission.  The NBRC has funded numerous projects championed by Kuster including economic development in downtown Claremont, constructing a new treatment facility at Bethlehem’s Friendship House, and improving water infrastructure in Bethlehem, Colebrook and Whitefield, among others.

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