Bill > S2093

This bill establishes a Rural Mobility Program within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) specifically focused on sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at improving rural communities' access to critical services through bicycles. The program will provide grants to eligible non-governmental organizations to distribute affordable, purpose-built bicycles and support rural development by addressing transportation challenges. Key objectives include enhancing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, while also supporting local infrastructure like rural mechanics and spare parts networks. The bill authorizes progressive funding starting at $3 million in fiscal year 2026 and increasing to $6 million in fiscal year 2028, with continued $6 million annual appropriations thereafter. The legislation requires USAID to submit detailed reports to congressional committees, both retrospectively (covering fiscal years 2022-2025) and annually thereafter, documenting project implementations, bicycle distribution numbers, participant outcomes, and lessons learned. The program will prioritize partnering with existing successful bicycle mobility initiatives and organizations with proven track records in the region, with a particular emphasis on addressing social and gender-based barriers to mobility.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2093/all-info