Rural Economic Infrastructure Equity Act of 2019

Rural Economic Infrastructure Equity Act of 2019

This bill revises existing rural infrastructure functions within the Department of Transportation (DOT) by creating an Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Investment and an Office of Rural Economic Investment.

Specifically, the bill

• sets forth the duties of the Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Investment and the mission and goals of the Office of Rural Economic Investment, including to improve coordination of DOT policies, programs, and activities in a manner that expands economic development in rural communities and regions;
• provides for a rural stakeholder consultation process during the development of any regulation, guidance, or policy that would have substantial direct effects on one or more rural areas; and
• establishes a rural transportation advisory council to consult with and advise the Office of Rural Economic Investment.