Recent legislation introduced by Arizona Senator Mark Kelly to reauthorize the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the first time in nearly 20 years, passed out of committee with strong bipartisan support—a key step towards becoming law. As Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, which oversees EDA, Kelly played a major role in shaping the legislation.
The Economic Development Reauthorization Act of 2024 makes key reforms to modernize EDA’s core programs, including Kelly’s ONSHORE Act, which would supercharge development of shovel-ready sites needed to attract manufactures from critical industries, which could potentially include RV and boat storage. Kelly also secured key provisions of his Invest in Our Communities Act to improve access to economic development resources for rural and tribal communities.
“When crafting this legislation, my top priority was making sure the EDA has the tools needed to help big and small Arizona communities meet the economic challenges and opportunities of the future. From improving economic development opportunities in rural and tribal communities to attracting manufacturing investments, this will drive economic growth in every corner of our state,” said Kelly. “We applaud Senator Kelly for leading on this important legislation. The Economic Development Reauthorization Act of 2024 will expand access to several of EDA’s programs for Arizona companies, create new workforce initiatives, and significantly strengthen U.S. competitiveness for new manufacturing opportunities, bringing more jobs and investment to Arizona. We’re grateful for Senator Kelly’s continued partnership in growing and advancing Arizona’s economy,” said Sandra Watson President & CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority.
Click here for a summary of the bill.
