The Rural American Solutions Group will focus on developing solutions to address issues facing rural America. House Republican Leader John Boehner (OH), Rep. Doc Hastings (WA), Rep. Frank Lucas (OK), Rep. Sam Graves (MO) and other House Republicans unveiled the group today.

According to a press release, President Obama promised to hold a summit on rural issues in his first 100 days, but that has not happened.

Here are the statements from the Republican leaders:

"Families, small businesses, and farmers in rural areas are struggling and this group will work to provide positive solutions too help farming and agricultural communities across the nation hit hard by this recession,” said Boehner.  “My district contains the two largest agricultural counties in Ohio and since my election in 1990, I’ve remained committed to fighting on behalf of families, farmers and small business owners in rural areas.  I look forward to working with my colleagues in the coming weeks to develop solutions that will ease the strain on rural America.”
 
“Those who live and work in rural America are struggling to make a living in a difficult economy.  It’s important that rural communities have a strong voice in Washington who know their struggles and are able to provide viable solutions.  I am pleased to be a part of an effort that understands the needs of our farmers, ranchers, and rural constituents,” added Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican Frank D. Lucas (R-OK).
 
“Many people in rural communities across our country are struggling economically because of excessive government actions, including those that prohibit or discourage the responsible use of our natural resources.  Republicans share rural Americans’ concerns and will be strong advocates on their behalf,” noted Natural Resources Committee Ranking Republican Doc Hastings (R-WA).   “I’m honored to be a part of the new Rural America Solutions Group that will encourage and develop effective solutions to specific problems currently facing rural communities.  Through the smart and efficient use of our public lands, water, minerals, timber and energy resources, we can both protect our environment and create new jobs.”
 
“As a farmer and a small businessman, I know the importance of rural America to our country.  No matter where you live, we all want the same things- good-paying jobs, a solid education and access to quality healthcare,” said Small Business Committee Ranking Republican Sam Graves (R-MO).  “However the solutions to those problems in rural America are unique.  I am excited to begin our work on finding solutions.”

Other members of the group include:
·         Rep. Henry Brown (R-SC)
·         Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-UT)
·         Rep. Mike Conaway (R-TX)
·         Rep. Steve King (R-IA)
·         Rep. Tom Latham (R-IA)
·         Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO)
·         Rep. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY)
·         Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA)
·         Rep. Adam Putnam (R-FL)
·         Rep. George Radonovich (R-CA)
·         Rep. Phil Roe (R-TN)
·         Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE)