Rural Issues

As a rural county teacher, Bilal has regularly heard from his students that, upon graduation, they will “leave and never come back” because “there’s nothing for me here.”

Despite forming the backbone of the nation through agriculture and environmental preservation, America’s rural communities are largely left to flounder, rapidly declining as their suburban counterparts flourish.

Bilal sees the immediate needs of small-town and country communities and will proudly act as their advocate and champion, ensuring they provide opportunities for people to live, work, and raise families while maintaining their rural character.

As Delegate, he will serve our rural communities :

  • Stretching affordable broadband internet access to every last corner of the Commonwealth so students, businesses, and remote workers can thrive in the modern world.
  • Improving access to public transportation, connecting rural residents to increased career possibilities while also exposing the appeal of these communities to a greater tourist revenue stream, kickstarting the local economy through increased patronization of local businesses and agritourism opportunities.
  • Addressing the lack of medical providers in underserved areas by incentivizing the creation of new healthcare facilities, encouraging graduates to practice in rural areas, and bolstering community paramedicine through education and certification opportunities.
  • Supporting and promoting small businesses by proposing legislation that encourages schools and government entities at the federal, state, and local levels to prioritize local suppliers for essential goods and services, streamlining supply chains and strengthening the shared economy.
  • Fostering the growth of new small businesses by collaborating with local economic development authorities to establish strategic partnerships with aspiring entrepreneurs committed to making a positive impact in their communities.
  • Introducing legislation aimed at safeguarding the natural resources of rural communities, promoting sustainable development that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship, and advancing the adoption of renewable energy and other eco-friendly initiatives.