NSDA actively monitors a range of issues that impact special districts, ensuring that our members are informed and prepared for changes in policy, regulation, and funding opportunities. By staying ahead of developments at the federal level, NSDA advocates for the best interests of special districts and provides timely updates on evolving challenges and opportunities.

Special District Management 

NSDA will continue to monitor and report on policies, rules, and regulations that directly impact the administrative management of special districts.

Cybersecurity

NSDA supports federal programs and policies designed to bolster cybersecurity resilience through support and not through unfunded mandates. This includes advocating for initiatives that enhance threat detection, prevention, and response capabilities; promote best practices for data protection and privacy; and facilitate access to federal resources and training programs. NSDA will monitor, track and communicate compliance requirements.

Infrastructure

NSDA will broadly support and promote programs aimed at strengthening the United States’ critical infrastructure provided by Special Districts, including transportation and ports, water infrastructure, conservation, groundwater recharge, recycling, and storage solutions, and specifically water infrastructure for firefighting.

NSDA will support permitting reforms that streamline regulatory processes, reduce project delays, and lower costs associated with infrastructure development and maintenance, while maintaining a balanced approach that respects environmental protections.

Disaster Resilience, Readiness, Response, and Recovery

NSDA supports strengthening the resilience of special districts and the communities they serve. This includes advocating for federal programs and initiatives that would improve disaster preparedness and response, support local emergency management needs, and provide resources for infrastructure hardening, risk assessment, and recovery efforts and supporting policies and partnerships with stakeholders to advance shared goals. For example, NSDA has engaged on the Fix our Forest Act and will continue into 2026.

On Going Priority Reauthorizations 

NSDA supports the timely and ongoing reauthorization of key legislation that sustains essential programs to strengthen rural development, enhance water infrastructure, promote conservation efforts, and improve disaster resilience. For example, support for the ongoing reauthorization of the Farm Bill is critical.