For too long, many hardworking communities across Alabama have been left behind while growth and investment flowed elsewhere. Families deserve more than promises—they deserve opportunities. One of the tools already available to help create jobs, encourage business growth, and attract private investment is the Opportunity Zone program. David Perry knows we need to do more to educate our citizens about these opportunities and explore ways to expand them into additional underserved and economically distressed communities that have been overlooked for far too long.
 

Opportunity Zones were created to encourage private investment in areas that need economic development. When businesses, developers, and investors bring resources into qualifying communities, it can help create jobs, support local businesses, improve infrastructure, and stimulate long-term growth. While the program has already benefited some communities, many areas that continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment, and lack of investment are still waiting for the same opportunities.
 

As David has traveled throughout Alabama's 7th Congressional District, he's met people who are ready to work, ready to build, and ready to invest in their communities if given the chance. The challenge is often not a lack of talent or determination—it is a lack of access to resources and investment. By helping people better understand how Opportunity Zones work and by identifying communities that could benefit from expanded participation, we can open new doors for growth and economic development.
 

Expanding Opportunity Zones should not be about handing out favors or creating dependence. It should be about creating an environment where businesses can invest with confidence, entrepreneurs can pursue their goals, and local communities can develop from within. Any effort to expand these opportunities must be done thoughtfully, with input from local leaders, business owners, and residents to ensure that growth benefits the people who already call these communities home.
 

The people of Alabama's 7th District have always demonstrated resilience, determination, and a strong work ethic. David's goal is to help create pathways that encourage investment, support economic growth, and bring new opportunities to areas that have been neglected for too long. By working together, educating our communities, and pursuing practical solutions, we can help ensure that every community has the opportunity to grow, prosper, and build a stronger future for the next generation.