“Communities where military families often live, go to school and shop are crucial for protecting the base and its families willing to sacrifice for our country,” said Dancer (R-Ocean).

He introduced a resolution (AJR181) in the state legislature last week urging Congress to pass H.R. 7290, known as the Defense Communities Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020.

The bill aims to help reduce the local cost-share for certain off-base community infrastructure projects funded in part by the U.S. Department of Defense.  It would also make it easier for more school districts to qualify for federal impact aid and boost funding to small businesses that support military bases by appropriating $50 million to the Defense Production Act.

“This relief will promote the resilience of our nation as we look to move forward and revitalize the economy in the wake of the pandemic,” Dancer emphasized.

Projects outside the base that could be eligible include electric, national gas, telecommunications and other utility projects, road improvements, new school construction or renovations, police, fire and emergency response facilities.