Overview
Title
To provide for the reform and continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2029, and for other purposes.
ELI5 AI
The bill is like a big plan to help farmers and make farms better until 2029. It wants to make sure food is safe, help grow plants and take care of animals, and make sure forests don't catch on fire too much.
Summary AI
The bill, H.R. 10529, titled "Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act," is designed to reform and continue various agricultural programs under the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2029. It proposes extensive updates to existing laws, focusing on aspects such as conservation, trade, risk coverage, and rural development. Moreover, the bill aims to enhance food safety, improve precision agriculture technologies, and support livestock producers, while also addressing issues related to forest conservation and wildfire management. The legislation emphasizes supporting both traditional and innovative farming practices, safeguarding national food security, and boosting economic growth in rural communities.
Published
Keywords AI
Sources
Bill Statistics
Size
Language
Complexity
AnalysisAI
The "Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act" is a comprehensive legislative proposal intended to guide the reform and continuation of a wide range of agricultural programs through the fiscal year 2029. This bill encompasses numerous aspects of the agricultural sector, including conservation, trade, rural development, risk management, and technological advancement, among others.
Overview of the Bill
The bill seeks to extend and modify existing agricultural programs, introduce new initiatives, and ensure greater oversight and accountability in several areas. Key areas the bill focuses on include supporting advancements in conservation practices, updating definitions and scopes of various agricultural terms and programs, and enhancing the infrastructure supporting rural development, such as broadband access and water systems. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes risk management improvements, particularly in crop insurance, and targets technological innovation within the agricultural sector, including biotechnology and precision agriculture.
Significant Issues
Several significant issues are noted throughout the bill's sections. Fundamentally, there is the topic of potential wasteful spending; numerous sections allow considerable funding allocations without detailed justification or specific criteria to manage these funds effectively. Additionally, the bill contains provisions that may extend timelines or increase funding amounts significantly without providing concrete evidence or evaluation about past program successes.
Other issues involve complexity and ambiguity. The language within the bill is often highly technical, making it potentially inaccessible for a broader audience. Terms like "qualified renewable biomass" and "precision agriculture" are sophisticated and lack further definition within the text, leading to potential misunderstandings and varied interpretations. Moreover, the inclusion of broad discretion, such as in the coordination of pesticide regulation or the expansion of biofuel programs, may result in inconsistent implementation across different regions or sectors.
Impact on the Public
The bill aims to impact the public by modernizing and reinforcing the support structures underlying American agriculture. Its focus on rural development and agricultural innovation seeks to stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and ensure high-quality products. The public might benefit broadly from improved environmental practices, more efficient farming methods, and better-prepared businesses to meet challenges including market fluctuations and climate impacts.
However, increased spending and extensions of certain programs without clear justification could lead to concerns about efficient use of public funds. Additionally, some sectors of the public might face the negative consequences of rigorous regulatory changes or insufficient stakeholder consultation, particularly in areas undergoing substantial shifts due to adjusted agricultural policies.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
The legislation prominently affects stakeholders within the agriculture industry, including farmers, ranchers, and agricultural-based businesses. Positive impacts likely arise for these groups due to increased funding support, technological aids, and insurance reforms aimed at mitigating risk and enhancing productivity. Small businesses and new ventures might especially benefit from streamlined grant programs and innovative loan guarantees.
Conversely, specific clauses might inadvertently favor larger or more established organizations, potentially sidelining smaller players without significant resources. Programs targeting niche sectors like sugar beet farmers or specific geographic regions may elicit criticism about equity and balance across the broader agricultural landscape. Furthermore, changes introducing new regulatory measures might pose additional burdens on small farmers or entities lacking the resource infrastructure to comply efficiently.
Overall, the bill seeks to adapt American agriculture to evolving challenges by strengthening its foundation through policy updates, program enhancements, and funded initiatives. Yet the potential for complexity, ambiguity, and unmonitored expenditure invites stakeholders to participate actively in its evaluation and implementation processes to ensure broad and fair benefit distribution.
Financial Assessment
The bill H.R. 10529, titled "Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act," outlines numerous financial allocations and expenditure plans related to agriculture and rural development, among other areas. Here's an analysis of the financial aspects related to the bill and how they interact with identified issues.
Financial Allocations and Spending
Several sections within the bill outline significant financial commitments aimed at diverse agricultural programs. For instance, funds are appropriated to support initiatives such as conservation programs, livestock management, and broadband expansion:
Section 11407 establishes the Agricultural Fiber Products Trust Fund with a notable financial commitment. It appropriates $50,000,000 annually from 2025 to 2029, directing various percentages to specific agricultural purposes. The detailed allocation includes $30,000,000 for general purposes, $17,750,000 dedicated to particular agricultural interests, and $2,250,000 for wool research and promotion.
Section 2501 details annual funding for different conservation efforts. This includes an ascending scale of investment ending with $700,000,000 in 2029 for specific conservation programs. This allocation strategy emphasizes a gradual financial increase, aiming to responsibly support long-term conservation initiatives.
Section 9102 reenvisions the Local Agriculture Market Program with financial appropriations, extending through 2029, though exact figures aren't specified for appropriations in this section compared to others.
Several other provisions highlight notable funding commitments, such as an appropriation of $5,000,000 annually for certain enhancements (Section 7513), which indicates steady, albeit smaller, fiduciary support across comprehensive program areas.
Relation to Identified Issues
Ambiguities in Definitions and Expenditure Justification
Some financial allocations in the bill, such as those linked to the Thrifty Food Plan (Section 11401), raise flags about the lack of detailed criteria or justification. This could potentially translate to unmonitored spending or inefficient use of allocated finances.
Effect on Bureaucratic Complexity
The allocation of funds for multiple advisory committees, as highlighted in Sections 10001 and 7301, can lead to overlapping responsibilities, which might result in administrative inefficiencies. Such scenarios could lead to fragmented fund usage and administrative delays, exacerbating bureaucratic complexities despite increased monetary backing.
Impact of Extended Appropriations
The extension of financial support through 2029 in several areas, like forest conservation (Section 6401), without robust accountability measures may signal an unchecked financial commitment not adequately aligned with evolving strategic needs. $7,000,000 is allocated annually till 2029 for the National and Regional Agroforestry Centers (Section 7301). While encouraging a long-term vision, these recurring allocations require a transparent framework to ensure that funds meet robust evaluative standards.
Provisions for Transparency and Compliance
Concerns with penalty handling and compliance systems in crop insurance (evident in sections like 10013 and 10014) might create administrative burdens or opacity in fund utilization. By earmarking $10,000,000 for program integrity starting in 2025, the bill intends to address compliance, though it may not sufficiently guarantee transparent enforcement.
In summary, while H.R. 10529 proposes substantial funding to enhance various programs under the Department of Agriculture, ensuring clarity, stringent oversight, and transparent administration of these finances is crucial to optimize the desired outcomes and address underlying concerns related to efficiencies and fiscal responsibility.
Issues
The definition of 'qualified renewable biomass' (Section 11417) involves ambiguities that could lead to varying interpretations, especially concerning certain types of waste that might influence deforestation or environmental policies.
The allocation of significant funding amounts without specific criteria or justifications, such as in the Thrifty Food Plan (Section 11401), may raise concerns about potential wasteful spending or inadequate oversight.
The establishment of multiple advisory committees and boards (e.g., Sections 10001, 220A, 7301) could lead to overlapping responsibilities, potentially increasing bureaucratic complexity and inefficiencies unless carefully managed.
Changes in subsidy levels for crop insurance (Sections 10005 and 10010) could potentially lead to increased costs for the government, impacting budget allocations and raising fiscal responsibility concerns.
Amendments granting extensive discretionary powers to certain officials, such as the Secretary of Agriculture (Sections 9202 and 9303), could lead to biased or inconsistent decision-making if not adequately checked.
Amendments aiming to streamline agency coordination (Section 9203) may inadvertently lead to bureaucratic spending redundancies if not carefully coordinated with current efforts.
The potential exclusivity implied in funding some programs but not others (Sections 6203 and 7508), could lead to perceived favoritism, especially when specific regional or industrial interests are highlighted.
The expansion of certain programs or provisions to 2029 (e.g., Sections 6401, 8004, 11203) without detailed evaluations or accountability measures could imply unchecked spending not aligned with strategic needs.
The process for handling penalties and compliance in crop insurance (Sections 10013 and 10014) might lack transparency and risk introducing complexity that could deter effective enforcement.
The Office of Homeland Security's added responsibilities (Section 11201) may lack explicit budgetary constraints, raising concerns over unchecked spending within an expanded scope of operations.
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
1. Short title; table of contents Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document is an extensive legislative act titled the "Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act." It consists of multiple titles and subtitles addressing various aspects of agriculture, conservation, trade, credit, rural development, research, forestry, energy, horticulture, and more. The act outlines specific programs and policies such as commodity policies, conservation initiatives, agricultural trade laws, farm loans, rural broadband expansion, research and development measures, forest management, and miscellaneous provisions related to livestock, national security, and other areas of interest to the agricultural sector in the United States.
2. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this Act, the term "Department" refers to the Department of Agriculture, and "Secretary" refers to the Secretary of Agriculture.
1101. Reference prices Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to the Agricultural Act of 2014, specifically adjusting reference prices. It updates the expiration date to September 30, 2024, and revises various subparagraphs by increasing certain price amounts.
Money References
- Section 1111 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 9011) is amended— (1) in paragraph (4), by striking “September 30, 2013” and inserting “September 30, 2024”; and (2) in paragraph (19)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking “$5.50” and inserting “$6.35”; (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking “$3.70” and inserting “$4.10”; (C) in subparagraph (C), by striking “$3.95” and inserting “$4.40”; (D) in subparagraph (D), by striking “$4.95” and inserting “$5.45”; (E) in subparagraph (E), by striking “$2.40” and inserting “$2.65”; (F) in subparagraph (F), by striking “$14.00” and inserting “$16.90”; (G) in subparagraph (G), by striking “$14.00” and inserting “$16.90”; (H) in subparagraph (H), by striking “$8.40” and inserting “$10.00”; (I) in subparagraph (I), by striking “$20.15” and inserting “$23.75”; (J) in subparagraph (J), by striking “$535.00” and inserting “$630.00”; (K) in subparagraph (K), by striking “$11.00” and inserting “$13.10”; (L) in subparagraph (L), by striking “$19.97” and inserting “$23.75”; (M) in subparagraph (M), by striking “$19.04” and inserting “$22.65”; (N) in subparagraph (N), by striking “$21.54” and inserting “$25.65”; and (O) in subparagraph (O), by striking “$0.367” and inserting “$0.42”.
1102. 1-time opportunity to add base acres Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 1112 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 offer farm owners a one-time opportunity to add base acres from 2025 onwards, based on certain eligibility criteria and historical planting data from 2019 to 2023. The Secretary of Agriculture is tasked with informing eligible farms, managing acreage allocations without exceeding certain limits, and determining payment yields, while allowing for appeals and opt-outs.
1103. Producer election Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Act of 2014 to update the rules for producer elections, allowing for crop years from 2025 to 2029 to be included. It specifies that producers can apply the same coverage for each covered commodity from 2026 to 2029 as was applied in 2024.
1104. Price loss coverage Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 1116 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 extend various deadlines and dates from 2023 and 2024 to 2029, affecting provisions related to price loss coverage.
1105. Agriculture risk coverage Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Act of 2014 to extend the eligibility for agriculture risk coverage from the original end date in 2023 to now include crop years through 2029. It adjusts the percentage of benchmark revenue for calculating payments for crop years 2014 through 2024 and increases it for crop years 2025 through 2029.
1201. Loan rates for nonrecourse marketing assistance loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Act of 2014 to extend the availability of nonrecourse marketing assistance loans until 2029 and updates the loan rates for various commodities from 2025 to 2029, such as wheat, corn, and soybeans, with specific rates per bushel or pound. It also includes a special rule for seed cotton and corn, setting specific loan rates for these commodities.
Money References
- In the case of wheat, $3.72 per bushel. “(2) In the case of corn, $2.42 per bushel. “(3) In the case of grain sorghum, $2.42 per bushel. “(4) In the case of barley, $2.75 per bushel. “(5) In the case of oats, $2.20 per bushel. “(6) In the case of base quality of upland cotton, $0.55 per pound. “(7) In the case of extra long staple cotton, $1.00 per pound. “(8) In the case of long grain rice, $7.70 per hundredweight. “(9) In the case of medium grain rice, $7.70 per hundredweight. “(10) In the case of soybeans, $6.82 per bushel. “(11) In the case of other oilseeds, $11.10 per hundredweight for each of the following kinds of oilseeds: “(A) Sunflower seed. “(B) Rapeseed.
- “(12) In the case of dry peas, $6.87 per hundredweight. “(13) In the case of lentils, $14.30 per hundredweight. “(14)
- In the case of small chickpeas, $11.00 per hundredweight. “(15) In the case of large chickpeas, $15.40 per hundredweight. “(16)
- In the case of graded wool, $1.60 per pound. “(17) In the case of nongraded wool, $0.55 per pound. “(18) In the case of mohair, $5.00 per pound.
- In the case of honey, $1.50 per pound. “(20) In the case of peanuts, $390 per ton.”; and (4) by amending subsection (e) (as so redesignated) to read as follows: “(e) Special rule for seed cotton and corn.— “(1) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of section 1116(b)(2) and paragraphs (1)(B)(ii) and (2)(A)(ii)(II) of section 1117(b), the loan rate shall be deemed to equal— “(A) for seed cotton, $0.30 per pound; and “(B) for corn, $3.30 per bushel.
1202. Repayment rates for upland cotton, long grain rice, and medium grain rice Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines changes to the Agricultural Act of 2014 regarding how the repayment rates for upland cotton are calculated and adjusted. It adds a new formula for determining the world market price and allows producers of upland cotton to receive a reimbursement if they repay their loans at a higher amount than the lowest market price available, effective from the date the amendment takes effect.
1203. Repayment rates for extra long staple cotton Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section explains changes to the Agricultural Act of 2014 regarding repayment rates for extra long staple cotton. It specifies that the repayment rate will be the lesser of a specific rate or the world market price, and adjustments may be made for costs and other factors to help U.S.-produced cotton compete better.
1204. Modifications to storage credits Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill modifies the Agricultural Act of 2014 to extend the cotton storage credit program from 2014 through 2024, and establishes a new payment program for cotton storage from 2025 to 2029, using tariff rates or specified rates depending on the location of storage, with specific rates set for California, Arizona, and other states.
Money References
- Section 1204(g) of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 9034(g)) is amended— (1) by striking “Effective” and inserting the following: “(1) CROP YEARS 2014 THROUGH 2024.—Effective”; (2) in paragraph (1), as so redesignated, by striking “2023” and inserting “2024”; and (3) by adding at the end the following: “(2) PAYMENT OF COTTON STORAGE COSTS.—Effective for each of the 2025 through 2029 crop years, the Secretary shall make cotton storage payments for upland cotton and extra long staple cotton available in the same manner as the Secretary provided storage payments for the 2006 crop of upland cotton, except that the payment rate shall be equal to the lesser of— “(A) the submitted tariff rate for the current marketing year; or “(B) in the case of storage in— “(i) California or Arizona, a payment rate of $4.90; and “(ii) any other State, a payment rate of $3.00.”.
1205. Economic adjustment assistance for textile mills Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Agricultural Act of 2014 specifies that the economic assistance provided to textile mills will be valued at 3 cents per pound until July 31, 2024, and will increase to 5 cents per pound starting August 1, 2024.
1301. Loan rate modifications Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 by extending the loan rate for raw cane sugar to 2024 and setting a new rate for the 2025 to 2029 crop years. It also specifies a new calculation method for those years, using 136.55% of the loan rate for raw cane sugar.
1302. Adjustments to commodity credit corporation storage rates Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 167 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 sets minimum storage rates for forfeited sugar starting in the 2025 crop year, with refined sugar at 34 cents and raw cane sugar at 27 cents per hundredweight per month. Additionally, it specifies that these new rates apply only to crop years beginning in 2025, with previous rates unchanged for years through 2024.
1303. Modernizing beet sugar allotments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines changes to the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, specifically about beet sugar allotments. It introduces an exception for prioritizing processors with available sugar during upward adjustments and requires the Secretary to make timely reassignment decisions based on January's supply and demand estimates.
1304. Reallocations of tariff rate quota shortfall Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to include rules about reallocating unused portions of tariff-rate quotas for sugar. It also calls for a study to decide if additional regulations on refined sugar imports are needed, with findings to be reported to Congress, and potentially enables new rules that protect the domestic sugar industry and comply with existing trade agreements.
1305. Clarification of tariff rate quota adjustments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Agricultural Adjustment Act by changing the wording to ensure that any adjustments to tariff rate quotas must specifically address direct responses to issues, overriding any other laws that may apply.
1401. Dairy margin coverage production history Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Agricultural Act of 2014 by changing how a dairy operation's production history is determined for dairy margin coverage. It removes previous conditions for establishing production history and clarifies that the production history will be based on the highest annual milk marketings during any one of the years 2021, 2022, or 2023.
1402. Premiums for dairy margins Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Act of 2014 to increase the threshold for dairy margins from 5,000,000 to 6,000,000 in both Tier I and Tier II. Additionally, it updates the timeline for premium discounts, changing the years from 2019-2023 to 2025-2029 and moving the start date from January 2019 to January 2025.
1403. Mandatory reporting of dairy product processing costs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amended section of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 requires specific manufacturers to report the production cost and product yield information for all products made in the same facilities. Additionally, starting three years after this rule is enacted and every two years following, the Secretary must publish a report on the processing costs of dairy products.
1404. Class I skim milk price Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill modifies how the price for Class I skim milk is calculated by specifying new rules for determining these prices based on certain adjustments and pricing factors. It also states that these changes will be implemented without needing the usual processes like public notice, hearings, or referendums that are typically required for such amendments.
1405. Extensions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 1405 makes several updates to existing laws: it removes a specific subsection from the Forward Pricing section of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008, extends the expiration date of the Indemnity Program from 2023 to 2029 in a public law, and also changes the expiration year from 2023 to 2029 for certain provisions in the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983.
1406. Dairy reports Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983 to require that reports about dairy production be submitted within 18 months after the end of each calendar year, starting from the year the new law is enacted.
1501. Livestock indemnity payment rates Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines changes to the livestock indemnity payment program under the Agricultural Act of 2014, specifying payment rates for losses due to predation, adverse weather, or disease, and introducing additional payments for losses of unborn livestock starting January 2024. It also describes the determination process for livestock death losses, grazing losses, and codifies weight categories for bovine livestock for payment purposes.
1502. Emergency assistance for honeybees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that the Secretary is responsible for evaluating and possibly adjusting the normal mortality rate for honeybee colony losses to ensure that losses due to colony collapse disorder are excluded from assistance under a specific agricultural act.
1503. Tree assistance program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Tree Assistance Program section of the amended Agricultural Act of 2014 introduces several changes, including adjustments to tree mortality thresholds and assistance requirements. It mandates timely replanting and offers alternatives like using different tree varieties or locations. Additionally, the Secretary has 120 days to inform applicants about the status of their assistance applications.
1504. Assistance in the form of block grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, a new provision is added to the Agricultural Act of 2014 allowing the Secretary of Agriculture to provide financial assistance through block grants for certain losses caused by natural disasters, such as losses in crops or livestock, if no other federal assistance is available.
1502. Assistance in the form of block grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows the Secretary to provide aid in the form of block grants for certain "covered losses," which include losses in revenue, quality, or production of agricultural goods due to natural disasters, as long as these losses are not covered by other federal assistance programs.
1601. Suspension of permanent price support authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Agricultural Act of 2014 by changing the year "2023" to "2029" in the part dealing with permanent price support authority, effectively extending the date until 2029.
1602. Implementation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 1602 of the bill amends parts of the Agricultural Act of 2014, allowing producers to repay marketing loans during government shutdowns, and provides $50 million for the Farm Service Agency to support various agricultural initiatives, with specified amounts allocated for mandatory cost surveys and other outlined activities.
Money References
- Section 1614 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 9097) is amended— (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (3), by striking “and” at the end; (B) in paragraph (4)(B), by striking the period at the end and adding “; and”; and (C) by adding at the end the following: “(5) establish a system that provides producers the option to repay a marketing assistance loan under section 1204 during a lapse in appropriations regardless of whether an employee of the Department is on furlough.”; and (2) in subsection (c), by adding at the end the following: “(5) FARM, FOOD, AND NATIONAL SECURITY ACT OF 2024.—The Secretary shall make available to the Farm Service Agency to carry out titles I and XI of the Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act and the amendments made by those titles $50,000,000, to remain available until expended, of which— “(A) $15,000,000 shall be used to carry out the mandatory cost surveys required by paragraph (3) of section 273(d) of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1637b(d)), as added by the Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act; “(B) not less than $5,000,000 shall be used to carry out paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subsection (b); “(C) $3,000,000 shall be used for activities described in paragraph (3)(A); and “(D) $3,000,000 shall be used for activities described in paragraph (3)(B).”.
1603. Equitable treatment of certain entities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 by defining "qualified pass through entities" to include partnerships, certain limited liability companies, S corporations, and certain joint ventures or general partnerships. It also updates various references in the Act to reflect this definition, ensuring that these types of entities are treated equitably under the Act's provisions.
1604. Payment limitation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to increase the payment limit from $125,000 to $155,000 for people or businesses primarily involved in farming, ranching, or forestry activities, starting in 2025. It also requires the Secretary of Agriculture to adjust this limit annually for inflation using the Consumer Price Index.
Money References
- — “(1) IN GENERAL.—Beginning with the 2025 crop year, in the case of a person or legal entity (except a qualified pass through entity) for which greater than or equal to 75 percent of the average adjusted gross income of such person or legal entity derives from farming, ranching, or silviculture activities, subsections (b) and (c) shall apply by substituting ‘$155,000’ for ‘$125,000’ each place it appears.
1605. Adjusted gross income limitation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 1605 amends a part of the Food Security Act of 1985 to create an exception to the adjusted gross income limitation for certain payments. This exception applies if at least 75% of a person's or entity's income comes from farming, ranching, or managing forest lands.
1606. Storage facility loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 expands the use of funds to include not only producers but also for constructing or upgrading storage facilities for propane used primarily in agriculture.
1607. Strengthening domestic food production supply chains Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Agricultural Act of 2014 prioritizes the strengthening of domestic food production supply chains, with a focus on producing agricultural commodities that are essential for food ingredients used throughout these supply chains. This objective is meant to guide any related Federal policies, rules, or guidance.
1302. Strengthening domestic food production supply chains Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires that any federal policy affecting domestic food production should prioritize preserving and strengthening the production of certain agricultural commodities that are used to create important food ingredients. This is to ensure a strong domestic food production supply chain.
1608. Limitation on CCC authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section states that from 2025 to 2034, the Commodity Credit Corporation can only use its powers for operations that Congress specifically approves or provides for, but it does not affect any funds that were already promised before this law was enacted.
2001. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 by expanding definitions to include “precision agriculture” and “precision agriculture technology.” Precision agriculture refers to managing farm inputs like seeds and fertilizers with high precision to improve efficiency and sustainability. Precision agriculture technology includes tools like GPS, satellite imagery, and IoT devices that help farmers use these inputs more effectively.
2101. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section adds definitions related to the Conservation Reserve Program, describing terms like "conservation buffer," "conservation reserve plan," and different enrollment options, along with specifying what qualifies as "eligible land" and "eligible partner" under the program. These definitions help clarify the practices and partners involved in conserving and enhancing certain lands to benefit environmental quality.
1230. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section of the bill defines several terms related to conservation efforts, such as "conservation buffer," which includes practices like grass strips and riparian buffers to improve water quality; "conservation reserve plan" detailing land management under the program; and various enrollment options like "continuous enrollment" and "grasslands enrollment" for the conservation reserve program. It also describes eligible land and partners, such as states and nongovernmental organizations, that can participate in these programs.
2102. Conservation reserve Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to update the terms and enrollment options for the conservation reserve program through 2029. It outlines eligibility criteria for various types of land, sets acreage limits, describes contract terms, and addresses reenrollment, especially concerning lands with specific tree types.
2103. Partnership initiatives Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment updates Section 1231A of the Food Security Act of 1985, changing its title to "Partnership Initiatives" and outlining the establishment and details of conservation programs to enhance wildlife habitats by collaborating with eligible partners. It specifies modifications in agreements, matching fund requirements, payment terms, and practices related to forested riparian buffers and drought agreements, while also removing the status report subsection.
2104. Duties of owners and operators Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Food Security Act by updating the language in several paragraphs to refer to a "conservation reserve plan" instead of a "plan" or "conservation plan" and replaces "highly erodible cropland" with "eligible land." Additionally, it removes subsection (b) and renames subsection (c) to (b).
2105. Duties of the Secretary Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to clarify terms related to conservation programs, such as changing eligible land definitions and permitting certain activities under specific conditions. It also includes guidelines for enrolling land in conservation reserves, restricts reenrollment of improved lands, and explains how the Secretary should allocate land enrollment to the States based on factors like state needs and historical participation rates.
2106. Payments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 1234 of the Food Security Act of 1985 define how the Secretary of Agriculture will provide cost-sharing and incentive payments to landowners and operators for practices that improve environmental quality, like vegetation establishment and erosion control. Additionally, it outlines rules for renting land for conservation purposes, including changes to payment limits and methods for determining eligibility and rates for rental payments on certain types of land.
Money References
- (e) Payment limitation for rental payments.—Section 1234(g)(1) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3834(g)(1)) is amended by striking “$50,000” and inserting “$125,000”.
2107. Contracts Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to update terminology and provisions related to the conservation reserve program, including contract ownership, sales, early termination policies, transitions for farmers, and assistance during droughts, ensuring more accurate descriptions and clear processes for enrollment and financial adjustments.
2201. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes part of the Food Security Act of 1985 to include precision agriculture practices and technology as part of the planning process.
2202. Establishment and administration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to update various provisions, including extending funding and payment periods to 2029, allowing producers to receive loans alongside program payments, increasing payments for certain conservation and precision agriculture practices, and introducing a Southern Border Initiative for conservation on lands near the southern U.S. border.
Money References
- (e) Payments for conservation practice related to organic production.—Section 1240B(i)(3)(A)(ii) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3839aa–2(i)(3)(A)(ii)) is amended by striking “2019 through 2023, $140,000” and inserting “2025 through 2029, $200,000”.
2203. Limitation on payments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill changes the years during which certain payments are limited under the Food Security Act of 1985, updating them from "2019 through 2023" to "2025 through 2029".
2204. Conservation innovation grants and payments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act to enhance conservation innovation through grants and trials. It allows for competitive grants to develop new technologies, addresses air quality concerns by changing a deadline to 2029, includes perennial production systems in on-farm trials, and improves data reporting to evaluate and recommend emerging technologies.
2301. Conservation stewardship program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 2301 of the bill amends the Food Security Act of 1985 by changing the year related to the Conservation Stewardship Program from 2031 to 2029.
2302. Duties of the Secretary Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Food Security Act of 1985 to increase support for precision agriculture by adjusting conservation stewardship payments, introducing a $2,500 minimum yearly payment, allowing extra payments for certain conservation activities, and updating the payment and organic certification timelines.
Money References
- Duties of the Secretary. (a) Conservation stewardship payments.—Section 1240L(c) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3839aa–24(c)) is amended— (1) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting before the period “(including increased costs associated with planning and adopting precision agriculture conservation activities and acquiring precision agriculture technology)”; and (2) by adding at the end the following: “(6) MINIMUM PAYMENT.—The amount of an annual payment under the program shall be not less than $2,500.”. (b) Supplemental payments for resource-Conserving crop rotations and advanced grazing management.—Section 1240L(d) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3839aa–24(d)) is amended— (1) in the subsection heading, by striking “and advanced grazing management” and inserting “, advanced grazing management, and precision agriculture”; (2) in paragraph (2)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking “; or” and inserting a semicolon; (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; or”; and (C) by adding at the end the following: “(C) precision agriculture conservation activities.”; and (3) in paragraph (3), by striking “or advanced grazing management” and inserting “, advanced grazing management, or precision agriculture conservation activities”. (c) Payment limitations.—Section 1240L(f) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3839aa–24(f)) is amended by striking “2019 through 2023” and inserting “2025 through 2029”.
2303. State assistance for soil health Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides for grants from 2025 to 2029 to U.S. states and Indian tribes that have soil health programs aimed at improving agricultural lands. These grants prioritize entities with climate action plans, require performance evaluations, and limit administrative expenses, with a total of $100 million allocated annually for the initiative.
Money References
- “(e) Grants.— “(1) AMOUNT.—The amount of a grant to an eligible State or eligible Indian Tribe under this section for a fiscal year may not exceed the lower of— “(A) $5,000,000; or “(B) as applicable— “(i) 50 percent of the cost of implementing the State soil health program in the fiscal year; or “(ii) 75 percent of the cost of implementing the Tribal soil health program in the fiscal year.
- “(h) Funding.—Of the funds made available to carry out this subchapter, $100,000,000 shall be available in each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to carry out this section.
1240L–2. State assistance for soil health Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a grant program for states and Indian Tribes to enhance soil health on agricultural lands from 2025 to 2029. The program prioritizes applicants with climate action plans, sets funding limits, requires audits, and allocates up to $100 million each fiscal year, with restrictions on administrative expenses.
Money References
- (e) Grants.— (1) AMOUNT.—The amount of a grant to an eligible State or eligible Indian Tribe under this section for a fiscal year may not exceed the lower of— (A) $5,000,000; or (B) as applicable— (i) 50 percent of the cost of implementing the State soil health program in the fiscal year; or (ii) 75 percent of the cost of implementing the Tribal soil health program in the fiscal year.
- (h) Funding.—Of the funds made available to carry out this subchapter, $100,000,000 shall be available in each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to carry out this section.
2401. Conservation of private grazing land Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The law is being updated to extend a deadline from 2023 to 2029 regarding the conservation of private grazing lands as part of the Food Security Act of 1985.
2402. Feral swine eradication and control program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a program by the Secretary to manage and eliminate feral swine in areas where they threaten agriculture, ecosystems, and health by offering financial assistance to farmers and coordinating efforts with relevant services. It includes provisions for funding, cost sharing, and involves research, eradication, damage repair, and innovative methods to tackle the feral swine issue.
Money References
- “(g) Funding.— “(1) MANDATORY FUNDING.—Of the funds made available under section 1241(a)(3)(A), the Secretary shall use to carry out this section $150,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
1240N. Feral swine eradication and control program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines a program established by the Secretary to control and eradicate feral swine, which harm agriculture, ecosystems, and health. The program involves studying the damage caused, developing control and restoration methods, and providing financial aid to affected agricultural producers, with cost-sharing features and a $150 million budget for 2025-2029.
Money References
- the funds made available under section 1241(a)(3)(A), the Secretary shall use to carry out this section $150,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
2403. Grassroots source water protection program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to extend the Grassroots Source Water Protection Program until 2029 and specifies changes to the allocation of funds, including an additional $1 million starting in fiscal year 2025, which will remain available until used.
Money References
- Section 1240O(b) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3839bb–2(b)) is amended— (1) in paragraph (1), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; and (2) in paragraph (3)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking “; and” and inserting a semicolon; (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (C) by adding at the end the following: “(C) of the funds made available under section 1241(a)(3)(A), $1,000,000 beginning in fiscal year 2025, to remain available until expended.”.
2404. Voluntary public access and habitat incentive program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program section of the Food Security Act of 1985 has been amended to allocate $150 million for fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to enhance public access to land. Additionally, $3 million of this amount is designated to improve access to wetland reserve easements through partnerships with state and tribal governments.
Money References
- the funds made available under section 1241(a)(3)(A), the Secretary shall use to carry out this section $150,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
- “(2) ENHANCED PUBLIC ACCESS TO WETLAND RESERVE EASEMENTS.—To the maximum extent practicable, of the funds made available under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall use $3,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to encourage public access to land covered by wetland reserve easements under section 1265C through agreements with States and Tribal governments under this section.”.
2405. Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act to allow the Secretary to offer technical and financial help for repairing deteriorating infrastructure and streamline coordination with Federal and State agencies. It also mandates the collection of data on expenditures and benefits of flood control measures, increases the government's cost share for rehabilitation projects from 65% to 90%, and raises funding for the fiscal year 2025 to $150 million.
Money References
- (d) Funding.—Section 15 of the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act (16 U.S.C. 1012a) is amended— (1) by striking “$50,000,000 for fiscal year 2019” and inserting “$150,000,000 for fiscal year 2025”; and (2) by inserting before the period at the end “, to remain available until expended”.
13. Data Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary is required to collect, maintain, and share data about flood control and conservation efforts at national and state levels, detailing spending and expected benefits, while also providing information on funding and contracts related to these projects. However, any agreements made with individual landowners are to remain confidential, and their identities must not be disclosed.
2406. Emergency conservation program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978 to allow agricultural producers to receive upfront payments for repairing or replacing fencing and other emergency conservation measures, based on fair market value. It also specifies that payments for wildfire damages can be made for fires not caused naturally, including those started by the Federal Government if they spread due to natural causes.
2407. Emergency watershed program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section describes the Emergency Watershed Program, outlining the Secretary's authority to restore and maintain land with floodplain easements, make contracts and agreements with various parties, and allow landowners to use the land for compatible purposes. It also permits enhancements to increase long-term watershed protection.
2408. National agriculture flood vulnerability study Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Secretary to deliver a report on the vulnerability of agricultural lands to flooding within two years. This report should examine economic losses, effects of flood mitigation efforts, available data on flood risks, and suggest practices to manage these risks.
2501. Commodity Credit Corporation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Food Security Act of 1985 by adjusting funding amounts and timelines for agricultural and conservation programs, updating the years for funding allocations to 2025 through 2029, amending certain program subtitles, and revising guidelines for public-private partnerships and conservation assistance.
Money References
- (a) Annual funding.—Section 1241(a) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3841(a)) is amended— (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking “2031” and inserting “2029”; (2) in paragraph (1)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking “2019 through 2023 to provide payments under section 1234(c)” and inserting “2025 through 2029 to provide payments under section 1234(c)(3)”; and (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking “2019 through 2023” and inserting “2025 through 2029”; (3) in paragraph (2), by striking subparagraphs (A) through (F) and inserting the following: “(A) $600,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; “(B) $625,000,000 for fiscal year 2026; “(C) $650,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; “(D) $675,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and “(E) $700,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.”; (4) in paragraph (3)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking clauses (i) through (v) and inserting the following: “(i) $2,400,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; “(ii) $2,600,000,000 for fiscal year 2026; “(iii) $2,800,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; “(iv) $3,100,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and “(v) $3,120,000,000 for fiscal year 2029; and”; and (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking clauses (i) through (v) and inserting the following: “(i) $1,275,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; “(ii) $1,300,000,000 for fiscal year 2026; “(iii) $1,325,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; “(iv) $1,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and “(v) $1,375,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.”; and (5) by adding at the end the following: “(5) The forest conservation easement program under subtitle
- I, using, to the maximum extent practicable— “(A) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; “(B) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2026; “(C) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; “(D) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and “(E) $65,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.
- “(6) The regional conservation partnership program under subtitle J, using, to the maximum extent practicable— “(A) $400,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; “(B) $425,000,000 for fiscal year 2026; “(C) $450,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; “(D) $450,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and “(E) $450,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.”. (b) Availability of funds.—Section 1241(b) of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3841(b)) is amended by striking “2031” and inserting “2029”.
2502. Rescissions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that certain funds, which had been previously set aside by a specific law, are now being canceled. This affects several specific parts of the law, which are detailed as clauses and subparagraphs within section 21001.
2503. Delivery of technical assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines amendments to the Food Security Act of 1985 that establish processes for certifying non-Federal entities and third-party providers to deliver technical assistance in conservation programs. It introduces roles for these entities, mandates updates to certification and conservation practice standards, and adds a focus on encouraging innovation and soil health planning. Additionally, it provides for improvements in transparency and administration and grants direct hire authority to the Secretary for qualified candidates in the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
2504. Administrative requirements for conservation programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment addresses various parts of the Food Security Act of 1985, including setting limits on the amount of cropland in conservation programs, revising how payment rates for conservation practices are calculated, and enhancing source water protection efforts. It also encourages practices that create or improve wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity.
2505. Experienced services program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Food Security Act of 1985 establishes an experienced services program that allows individuals aged 55 or older to assist in conservation efforts for the Department of Agriculture, provided they are not employees of the Department or State agriculture departments. The program can be funded using resources allocated to various conservation programs under the Secretary's administration.
2601. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Food Security Act of 1985 by removing one definition and renumbering the remaining definitions. It also revises the language in one of these definitions to refer to land that has a pending offer for purchase of an agricultural land easement from a qualified entity.
2602. Agricultural land easements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 1265B of the Food Security Act of 1985 include changes to how cost-share assistance is calculated for agricultural land easements, allowing higher federal shares in special cases, like socially disadvantaged farmers or significant grasslands. Additional provisions address the evaluation and ranking of applications, agreements with eligible entities including enforcement rights, certification processes to reduce oversight for experienced entities, and improved review measures to ensure the integrity of easement acquisitions.
2603. Wetland reserve easements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to enhance the support for wetland reserve easements by including socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, providing financial assistance for land maintenance and repair, and setting up a strategy to assess and meet land stewardship needs. It also allows for partnerships with various entities to manage the easements and reserves at least 15% of the funds for enhancement initiatives.
2604. Administration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act to allow the Secretary of Agriculture to modify, exchange, or make small adjustments to land interests in agricultural programs, provided these changes support conservation, are in the public interest, and do not result in extra payments. Additionally, it exempts certain payments from income limits.
2701. Forest conservation easement program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Forest Conservation Easement Program, as described in the amendment to the Food Security Act of 1985, aims to conserve and restore forest lands through easements and partnerships with eligible entities, promoting ecological health and protecting threatened or endangered species. It outlines assistance, cost-share opportunities, and terms for easements, including financial support for habitat enhancement projects and management plans, while providing guidelines for the enrollment, administration, and potential modification or termination of easements.
Money References
- “(E) LIMITATIONS.—Financial assistance provided by the Secretary under this paragraph to an owner of eligible land may not exceed $500,000 per easement or contract.
1267. Establishment and purposes Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a program by the Secretary to conserve forests and restore eligible land by purchasing conservation easements. The program aims to protect working forests, enhance forest ecosystems, improve habitats for at-risk species, and support the goals of the Healthy Forests Reserve Program.
1267A. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for terms related to the forest conservation easement program, including what qualifies as "acreage owned by an Indian Tribe," who counts as an "eligible entity" or "eligible land," and details about "forest land easements," "forest reserve easements," and "socially disadvantaged forest landowners."
1267B. Forest land easements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines a program where the Secretary provides financial help and guidance for the purchase of forest land easements to conserve working forests. Eligible entities can receive up to 75% of the easement's value if the land has special environmental significance or is owned by socially disadvantaged individuals.
1267C. Forest reserve easements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a program to help landowners protect and enhance forest reserves through various easement options, such as permanent or 30-year agreements. It includes the provision of financial and technical assistance for land restoration and conservation efforts that benefit species at risk, and grants landowners certain protections under the Endangered Species Act.
Money References
- (E) LIMITATIONS.—Financial assistance provided by the Secretary under this paragraph to an owner of eligible land may not exceed $500,000 per easement or contract.
1267D. Administration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines rules for how the Secretary can manage land interests under a conservation program. It specifies that certain lands are ineligible for easements, allows the Secretary to modify, exchange, or terminate interests in eligible land if specific criteria are met, and requires consent from landowners and notice to Congress before terminating interests. Additionally, land enrolled in the healthy forests reserve program before the enactment of this section will automatically be included in the program.
2801. Establishment and purposes Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Food Security Act to focus on addressing natural resource issues, like soil conservation, water protection, and flood prevention, on a large-scale basis such as regions or watersheds. It emphasizes sustainable practices for soil and water as well as conservation of wildlife and agricultural land.
2802. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes a part of the Food Security Act of 1985 by removing an existing item and specifying that the "forest conservation easement program" is established under a specific section called subtitle I.
2803. Regional conservation partnerships Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines changes to the Food Security Act of 1985, allowing the Secretary to make partnership agreements quicker and simpler for projects that help landowners. It also clarifies how partners can ask for rule changes and ensures they get paid within 30 days after they request it.
2804. Assistance to producers Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 2804 of the proposed bill amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to ensure that at least 50% of a project's overall costs, which is supported through a partnership agreement, are covered by direct funding, while also reordering certain parts of the existing text.
2805. Funding Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section of the Food Security Act of 1985, funding rules are updated. The Secretary of Agriculture can allocate funds for technical assistance and limit administrative costs to a maximum of ten percent, simplifying processes for eligible partners and encouraging the use of third-party technical service providers.
2806. Administration Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to require the Secretary to make reports publicly available and ensures that program contracts are consistent with the covered program rules. It grants the Secretary authority to adjust program requirements for flexibility and unique local needs but not statutory requirements, and allows for certain waivers and exemptions related to land eligibility and irrigation history.
2807. Critical conservation areas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Food Security Act of 1985 by including wildlife habitat connectivity and migration corridors in its definition of critical conservation areas, and changes the source of funds for certain applications to section 1271D(a)(2) instead of section 1271D(d)(2).
2901. Superseded conservation reserve program authorities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Summary: This section of the bill repeals specific programs related to the conservation reserve, but allows existing agreements to remain valid and even be modified if all parties agree. The Secretary of Agriculture is permitted to extend certain contracts for one year and use previously allocated funding to uphold agreements made before the law changed, without increasing the land involved or payment amounts.
2902. Healthy Forests Reserve Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section repeals the Healthy Forests Reserve Program under the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 but preserves existing contracts, agreements, and easements, as well as their associated funding and assistance. It also specifies that prior year funds can be used for these existing commitments without increasing payment amounts, and allows for the use of other funds from a different program to continue these commitments.
3101. Food aid quality assurance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 202 of the Food for Peace Act update various administrative responsibilities and funding rules, including requiring the Administrator to work with the Secretary for some decisions, revising who can receive assistance, and limiting the use of funds so at least 50% must be spent on buying and shipping U.S. agricultural products. These changes extend the scope of the program and include provisions for nongovernmental organizations as participants.
3102. Minimum levels of assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food for Peace Act by changing the name of a congressional committee from “Committees on International Relations” to “Committees on Foreign Affairs,” removing a paragraph, and renumbering the remaining paragraphs.
3103. Food aid consultative group Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 3103 amends the Food for Peace Act by extending the deadline for the Food Aid Consultative Group to operate from December 31, 2023, to December 31, 2029.
3104. Issuance of regulations; oversight, monitoring, and evaluation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food for Peace Act by changing the name of a referenced act from "the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018" to "the Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act" in one part, and updating the year mentioned from "2023" to "2029" in another part.
3105. International food relief partnership Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 3105 of the bill amends the Food for Peace Act to ensure that at least $15 million is allocated each year from 2025 to 2029 for international food relief efforts, and these funds will be available until they are fully spent.
Money References
- Section 208(f) of the Food for Peace Act (7 U.S.C. 1726b(f)) is amended to read as follows: “(f) Availability of appropriations.—In addition to amounts otherwise made available to carry out this section, of the funds made available in each fiscal year under this title to the Administrator, not less than $15,000,000 shall be made available in each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to carry out this section, to remain available until expended.”.
3106. Use of commodity credit corporation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Commodity Credit Corporation is now allowed to cover all related and additional costs for commodities provided under titles II and III of the Food for Peace Act.
3107. Pre-positioning of agricultural commodities and annual report regarding food aid programs and activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill amends the Food for Peace Act by outlining procedures for acquiring and distributing agricultural commodities. It extends authorization dates, revises reporting requirements to include a detailed financial statement and an assessment of programs for women and girls, and removes a subsection.
3108. Deadline for agreements to finance sales or to provide other assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 3108 amends the Food for Peace Act by extending the deadline for financing sales or providing assistance from the year 2023 to 2029.
3109. Minimum level of nonemergency food assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food for Peace Act to extend funding provisions to 2029 and ensures that starting in 2025, if child wasting rates exceed 5% in certain countries, at least $200 million must be used to purchase therapeutic foods for children, with adjustments if the total available funding is below a certain threshold.
Money References
- “(2) MINIMUM LEVEL DESCRIBED.—The minimum level described in this paragraph is— “(A) $200,000,000; or “(B) in the case of a fiscal year for which the total amount made available to carry out programs under title II is less than $1,925,000,000, the product of— “(i) $200,000,000, multiplied by “(ii) the quotient of the total amount made available to carry out programs under title II for that fiscal year divided by $1,925,000,000.”.
3110. Termination date for micronutrient fortification programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the end date for micronutrient fortification programs under the Food for Peace Act, extending it from the year 2023 to 2029.
3111. John Ogonowski and Doug Bereuter farmer-to-farmer program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill updates the Food for Peace Act by extending the end date from 2023 to 2029 for provisions related to the John Ogonowski and Doug Bereuter farmer-to-farmer program.
3201. Agricultural trade promotion and facilitation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill modifies the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 by introducing technical assistance to improve infrastructure in foreign markets for U.S. agricultural products, authorizing $1,000,000 annually from 2025 to 2029 for this initiative. Additionally, it mandates a biennial report on the competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops, updates funding allocations from 2025 to 2029, and repeals a section of a previous appropriations act.
Money References
- “(B) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— “(i) IN GENERAL.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this paragraph $1,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
- “(D) FORM OF REPORT.—The report required by subparagraph (A) shall be made available to the public in machine-readable format.”. (c) Modification and extension of funding.—Section 203(f) of the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5623(f)) is amended— (1) by striking “2019 through 2023” each place it appears and inserting “2025 through 2029”; (2) in paragraph (2), by striking “$255,000,000” and inserting “$489,500,000”; (3) in paragraph (3)(A)(i), by striking “$200,000,000” and inserting “$400,000,000”; (4) in paragraph (3)(A)(ii), by striking “$34,500,000” and inserting “$69,000,000”; and (5) in paragraph (4), by striking “during the period in which that memorandum is in effect” and inserting “during the period in which the directives in such memorandum are in effect”.
3202. Preserving foreign markets for goods using common names Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 by defining what constitutes a "common name" for agricultural commodities or food products, including specific criteria and considerations for determining such names. It also mandates coordination between the Secretary and the United States Trade Representative to ensure that U.S. agricultural producers can use these common names in foreign markets by negotiating agreements, with regular briefings to Congress on these efforts.
303. Negotiations to defend the use of common names Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary, in coordination with the United States Trade Representative, is tasked with negotiating agreements to ensure that U.S. producers can use common names for their agricultural products globally. Additionally, twice each year, they must brief several congressional committees on their progress and achievements in these negotiations.
3203. Interagency seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetable working group Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes an interagency working group led by the Secretary of Agriculture, which includes representatives from federal agencies, to monitor trade data on seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables. This group will collaborate with agricultural producers and trade associations to address threats from imports, and may suggest actions or programs to support domestic producers affected by market changes.
418. Interagency seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables working group Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Interagency Working Group on Seasonal and Perishable Fruits and Vegetables is formed by the Secretary of Agriculture, the U.S. Trade Representative, and other federal heads to monitor trade data and impacts on domestic producers. They will consult with relevant committees and producers, considering potential trade actions, and suggest programs to support affected producers.
3301. Growing American food exports Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 changes the expiration year for growing American food exports from 2023 to 2029.
3302. Food for progress act of 1985 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Food for Progress Act of 1985 make several changes: they require entering into agreements with at least two eligible entities annually, extend deadlines and terms from 2023 to 2029, remove certain references to humanitarian efforts, and change a committee name from "International Relations" to "Foreign Affairs".
3303. Bill Emerson humanitarian trust act Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust Act has been updated to extend several provisions from 2023 to 2029. It also clarifies responsibilities by allowing the Secretary to release funds or commodities and makes some wording changes, such as replacing "the Administrator" with "the Secretary" in certain sections.
3304. Promotion of agricultural exports to emerging markets Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates an existing law to extend the deadline from 2023 to 2029 for promoting agricultural exports to emerging markets, as outlined in a specific U.S. act related to agriculture and trade.
3305. International agricultural education fellowship program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the International Agricultural Education Fellowship Program by extending the funding years from 2025 to 2029, ensuring program consistency by requiring the fellowship to be implemented in participating countries for at least three consecutive years, and mandating multi-year contracts for organizations involved.
3306. International agriculture cultural immersion and exchange program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines the establishment of an International Agriculture Cultural Immersion and Exchange Program under the Secretary of Agriculture, targeting U.S. residents aged 19 to 30 with agricultural experience to spend up to six months in foreign countries cultivating agricultural and cultural knowledge, while also bringing in individuals from participating countries to experience U.S. agriculture. The program aims to foster global citizenship and enhance agricultural trade relationships, with funding capped at $10 million annually from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(e) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.
3313. International Agriculture Cultural Immersion and Exchange Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The International Agriculture Cultural Immersion and Exchange Program is a proposed initiative by the Secretary of Agriculture to promote cultural and agricultural exchange between the United States and countries with agricultural trade relations. It aims to provide experiences for young Americans and international participants focused on agricultural sciences and food systems, requiring a partnership with a nonprofit organization and authorizing $10 million annually from 2025 to 2029 for its execution.
Money References
- (e) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
3307. International food security technical assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a part of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, changing the year mentioned from "2023" to "2029." This extends the period for international food security technical assistance activities.
3308. McGovern-Dole international food for education and child nutrition program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program has been updated in several ways: it now includes lower-middle-income categories, changes a committee name from "International Relations" to "Foreign Affairs," extends some provisions to 2029, and adjusts the cap on certain expenditures from "not more than 10 percent" to a range of "8 to 15 percent."
3309. Global crop diversity trust Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 3202 of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 limit the U.S. government's contributions to the Global Crop Diversity Trust to not more than 33% of the total funds from all sources and extend the funding period through 2029.
3310. Local and regional food aid procurement projects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 by extending the expiration date for local and regional food aid procurement projects from 2023 to 2029.
3311. Agricultural trade enforcement task force Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes the "Agricultural Trade Enforcement Task Force," which is created by the President to identify and address trade barriers affecting U.S. agricultural exports. The Task Force, comprising employees from various federal agencies with expertise in agricultural trade, must report quarterly to Congress on its progress and consult with relevant stakeholders and trading partners.
4101. Persons eligible for real estate loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 302(a) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act changes the eligibility criteria for real estate loans, clarifying that applicants must meet specific ownership requirements and defining the roles of qualified operators and embedded entities involved in farm operations. It specifies that at least 50% ownership is needed for certain operators, while embedded entities must have at least 75% of their ownership controlled by qualified operators to fulfill direct ownership requirements.
4102. Experience requirements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the experience requirements in the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act by reducing the required years of experience from three years to two and allows for other criteria as determined by the Secretary. Additionally, it specifies that responsibilities can be operational, and makes adjustments to relevant clauses to reflect these updates.
4103. Conservation loan and loan guarantee program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Conservation Loan and Loan Guarantee Program is updated to include loans for precision agriculture practices and technologies and to extend the program until 2029.
4104. Limitations on amount of farm ownership loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the limits on farm ownership loans by increasing the maximum loan amount from $600,000 to $850,000, and for loans guaranteed by the Secretary, from $1,750,000 to $3,500,000, starting in fiscal year 2025.
Money References
- Section 305(a)(2) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1925(a)(2)) is amended by striking “$600,000, or, in the case of a loan guaranteed by the Secretary, $1,750,000 (increased, beginning with fiscal year 2019” and inserting “$850,000, or, in the case of a loan guaranteed by the Secretary, $3,500,000 (increased, beginning with fiscal year 2025”.
4105. Inflation percentage Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text modifies Section 305(c) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act by changing how certain farm land values are calculated. Instead of using the "Prices Paid By Farmers Index," it now considers the per acre average value of farm real estate, cropland, and pasture, with each being equally weighted based on the United States Department of Agriculture reports.
4106. Authority of Farm Credit System institutions to provide financial support for essential rural community facilities projects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Farm Credit Act of 1971 has been amended to allow Farm Credit Banks, direct lender associations, and cooperative banks to provide financial and technical assistance to projects for essential community facilities in rural areas. These institutions are limited to financing up to 15% of their total outstanding loans and must offer other financial institutions the opportunity to participate, with priority given to community banks in the area. An annual report on these activities will be given to Congress and posted online. This amendment takes effect on October 1, 2024.
4.18B. Essential community facilities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Farm Credit Banks and related institutions can provide loans and support to build or improve essential facilities in rural areas, as long as the project qualifies under specific federal criteria. They must also offer part of the loan to another domestic lender, giving preference to local community banks, and keep assistance under 15% of their total loans, while reporting annually to Congress on their activities.
4107. Down payment loan program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The changes to Section 310E(b)(1) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act involve altering the language to limit a loan's down payment to 45% of the lesser amount, subject to another section, and simplifying subparagraphs by removing unnecessary parts and reformatting punctuation.
4108. Heirs property Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides a no-cost legal help program for heirs with shared ownership of farmland or forest land to resolve property claims, enabling them to access U.S. Department of Agriculture programs. It allows nonprofits to assist underserved heirs and defines terms like "eligible entity" and "limited resource heir," with up to $60 million in funding authorized annually from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(5) LIMITATIONS ON AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—To carry out this subsection, there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $60,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”. (c) Annual report on operations and outcomes under the relending program To resolve ownership and succession on farmland.—Section 310I(g) of such Act, as so redesignated by subsection (b) of this section, is amended by striking “Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall” and inserting “The Secretary shall annually”.
4109. Prompt approval of loans and loan guarantees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to simplify and expedite the loan application process for certain rural and farming loans, setting different guarantee limits based on loan amounts and providing special conditions for rural business loans up to $600,000 if there is no significant risk of default.
Money References
- Section 333A of the of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1983a) is amended— (1) in subsection (g)— (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following: “(1) REAL ESTATE AND OPERATING GUARANTEED LOANS.— “(A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall provide to lenders a short, simplified application form for real estate and operating guaranteed loans under this title, for loans of not more than $1,000,000.
- “(C) MAXIMUM GUARANTEE.—The percentage of the principal amount of a loan which may be guaranteed pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed— “(i) 90 percent, in the case of a loan not exceeding $125,000; “(ii) 75 percent, in the case of a loan of more than $125,000 and not more than $500,000; or “(iii) 50 percent, in the case of a loan of more than $500,000 and not more than $1,000,000.”; and (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively, and inserting after paragraph (1) the following: “(2) BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOANS TO ASSIST RURAL ENTITIES.— “(A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall develop an application process that accelerates, to the maximum extent practicable, the processing of applications for business and industry guaranteed loans to assist rural entities, as described under section 310B(a)(2)(A), for loans not exceeding $400,000.
- “(B) EXCEPTION.—The accelerated application process, as provided under subparagraph (A), shall apply to loans not exceeding $600,000 if there is not a significant increased risk of a default on the loan, as determined by the Secretary.”; and (2) by striking subsection (h).
4110. Farmer loan pilot projects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines a pilot program led by the Secretary through the Farm Service Agency to simplify the loan application process for direct farm ownership by establishing a pre-approval process. This program includes specific eligibility requirements and does not change existing borrowing conditions and will end by September 30, 2029, with annual reports on its progress required.
333E. Prior approval authorization pilot program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The pilot program described in this section allows the Secretary, through the Farm Service Agency, to establish a pre-approval process for direct farm ownership loans to make applying easier and give more certainty to borrowers. The Secretary can also set eligibility requirements, but existing borrowing rules still apply, and the program will end on September 30, 2029, with annual reports submitted to Congress.
4111. Refinancing of guaranteed loans into direct loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary, through the Farm Service Agency, to create regulations for refinancing certain distressed guaranteed loans into direct loans within one year of the Act's enactment. The refinancing will have no impact on subsidy rates and must follow specific criteria to ensure taxpayer funds are protected, with a limit on the maximum amount for direct loans.
4201. Persons eligible for operating loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 311(a) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act clarifies that at least 50% ownership is needed to qualify for operating loans, rather than a majority. It also introduces new rules defining "qualified operators" and changes the ownership criteria for entities to be eligible for loans, focusing on the total ownership of embedded entities by these operators.
4202. Limitations on amount of operating loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to increase the maximum amount for operating loans from $400,000 to $750,000. It also raises the limit for loans guaranteed by the Secretary from $1,750,000 to $3,000,000, starting in the fiscal year 2025.
Money References
- Section 313(a)(1) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1943(a)(1)) is amended by striking “$400,000, or, in the case of a loan guaranteed by the Secretary, $1,750,000 (increased, beginning with fiscal year 2019” and inserting “$750,000, or, in the case of a loan guaranteed by the Secretary, $3,000,000 (increased, beginning with fiscal year 2025”.
4203. Limitation on microloan amounts Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act changes the maximum amount for microloans from $50,000 to $100,000.
Money References
- Section 313(c)(2) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1943(c)(2)) is amended by striking “$50,000” and inserting “$100,000”.
4204. Cooperative lending pilot projects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act by extending the deadline from 2023 to 2029 for certain cooperative lending pilot projects, which aim to support rural development.
4301. Persons eligible for emergency loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates rules for who can get emergency loans under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. It changes requirements to make it clearer who qualifies for the loans, such as allowing qualified operators and certain entities to meet the ownership rules if they control a required percentage of a farm or its operations.
321. Eligibility for loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the eligibility requirements that individuals or entities must meet to qualify for loans as determined by the Secretary.
4401. Beginning farmer and rancher individual development accounts pilot program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The pilot program for beginning farmer and rancher individual development accounts has been extended. Previously set to end in 2023, the termination date has been pushed to 2029 according to an amendment to the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act.
4402. Loan authorization levels Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes a date in a part of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, which allows for loans, by extending the original year of 2023 to a new year of 2029.
4403. Loan fund set-asides Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill changes the end date in a section of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act from 2023 to 2029, allowing the specified loan fund set-asides to continue for additional years.
4404. Use of additional funds for direct operating microloans under certain conditions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 4404 changes the expiration year in a part of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act for direct operating microloans, extending the authorization from 2023 to 2029.
4501. Export finance authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill amends the Farm Credit Act of 1971 by changing the limit on a bank's export financing from 50 percent of the bank's capital to 15 percent of the bank's total assets.
4502. Support for rural water and waste systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes a change to the Farm Credit Act of 1971 by defining "rural area" in relation to certain loans and assistance as the areas described in another law, the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act.
4503. Farmer loan data collection Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text describes changes to the Farm Credit Act requiring lenders within the Farm Credit System to collect and report demographic data, such as race, sex, and ethnicity, of small farmers applying for loans, and to ensure the confidentiality of personal identities. These changes take effect for applications received over a year after the enactment, with compliance required by January 1, 2026, unless otherwise directed by legal changes.
4.21. Small farmer loan data collection Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section explains that the Farm Credit Administration is the only regulator of the Farm Credit System and requires lenders to ask small farmers for their race, sex, and ethnicity, while keeping this data private and not forcing customers to disclose information. This data will be collected and reported annually to ensure transparency, starting one year after the law is enacted.
4504. Loan guarantees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a part of the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to include a reference to another law, the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, in the section about loan guarantees.
4505. Standards for qualified loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to update terminology by changing "mortgage investors" to "investors in those types of loans" and to allow the Farm Credit Administration to set additional limits on loan amounts for moderately sized agricultural mortgage loans, adjusting for location and value differences while ensuring financial safety.
4506. State agricultural mediation programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987 by expanding the definition of "State" to include Indian tribes, increasing the maximum matching grants from $500,000 to $700,000 for State agricultural mediation programs, and allowing up to 25% of unspent financial aid to be used in the next fiscal year. It also extends the authorization for appropriations from 2023 to 2029.
Money References
- (a) Definition of State.—Section 501 of the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987 (7 U.S.C. 5101) is amended by adding at the end the following: “(e) Definition of State.—In this title, the term ‘State’ has the meaning given the term in section 1404 of the Food and Agriculture Act of 1977, and includes any Indian tribe (as defined in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act).”. (b) Matching grants to States.—Section 502 of the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987 (7 U.S.C. 5102) is amended— (1) in subsection (b)(2), by striking “$500,000” and inserting “$700,000”; and (2) by adding at the end the following: “(c) Carryover of financial assistance.—The Secretary shall permit a State that receives financial assistance under subsection (a) for a fiscal year to carry over not more than 25 percent of the financial assistance that is not expended by the end of the fiscal year, for use during the next fiscal year without deducting the amount from any assistance provided under this Act in subsequent fiscal years.”. (c) Authorization of appropriations.—Section 506 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 5106) is amended by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”. ---
4507. Technical corrections Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section of the bill makes a series of technical updates and corrections to the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. It eliminates outdated references, revises loan assessment requirements, updates names of agencies, corrects inconsistencies, and simplifies certain provisions related to agricultural loans and farmer programs.
Money References
- (k) Updating of notice provision requirement and lifetime debt forgiveness limit.—Section 353 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 2001) is amended— (1) in subsection (i)(1), by striking “registered or certified mail” and inserting “any method that provides documentation of delivery”; and (2) in subsection (o), by striking “$300,000” and inserting “$600,000”.
5101. Prioritizations for distance learning and telemedicine and community facilities program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to extend various priority considerations for telemedicine and distance learning programs from 2025 to 2026. It broadens the focus to include mental health, behavioral health, and maternal health alongside substance use issues in these programs.
5102. Distance learning and telemedicine loans and grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 5102 amends a previous law related to distance learning and telemedicine programs by changing the availability of funds. It specifies that $82,000,000 will be allocated for each year from 2025 to 2029, with the funds remaining available for use for two years after the fiscal year they are allocated for.
Money References
- Section 2335A of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 950aaa–5) is amended by striking “$82,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023” and inserting “$82,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, to remain available for 2 fiscal years after the fiscal year for which appropriated”.
5201. Rural broadband program loans and grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The ReConnect Rural Broadband Program aims to provide grants, loans, and loan guarantees to improve broadband service in rural areas, focusing on unserved communities and areas with less than 10,000 inhabitants. The program prioritizes projects involving multiple stakeholders, such as local governments and nonprofit institutions, and includes requirements for broadband speed standards and eligibility for financial assistance, with specific funds authorized for 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(C) NETWORK UPGRADE PLANNING.—The Secretary may prioritize an applicant seeking to meet the broadband buildout standards under clause (i) or (ii) of subparagraph (B) if the applicant submits information regarding the potential for the physical infrastructure of the network to be upgraded to meet the broadband buildout standards under subparagraph (B)(iii) at the time of the application, assuming reasonable progress in relevant networking technologies.”; (6) by striking subsection (j) and inserting the following: “(j) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $350,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, to remain available until expended.”; and (7) in subsection (k), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”.
5202. Expansion of middle mile infrastructure into rural areas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the dates in a part of the Rural Electrification Act from “2018 through 2023” to “2025 through 2029,” extending the period during which certain middle mile infrastructure projects in rural areas can be supported.
5203. Innovative broadband advancement program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Innovative Broadband Advancement Program aims to improve high-speed internet access in rural areas by offering grants and loans to entities for demonstrating new broadband technologies or deployment methods. It prioritizes projects that involve partnerships, have wide coverage, and are located in diverse geographic areas, with specific provisions for supporting satellite broadband access in remote regions, while requiring the Secretary of Agriculture to report annually on the program’s effectiveness and impact.
Money References
- “(e) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.
603. Innovative broadband advancement program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The "Innovative Broadband Advancement Program" allows the Secretary of Agriculture to offer grants or loans to eligible entities to test new broadband technologies that could lower deployment costs and increase internet speeds in rural areas. The program also supports reducing costs for satellite broadband access in remote regions and requires the submission of yearly reports to assess the program's outcomes and suggest further improvements.
Money References
- (e) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
5204. Community connect grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 by increasing certain numerical requirements, ensuring broadband speeds meet specific criteria, and changing the applicable years for grant programs from 2019-2023 to 2025-2029.
5205. Rate regulation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to state that the Secretary does not have the authority to regulate rates for broadband service.
607. Rate regulation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section clarifies that the Secretary does not have the authority to set or control the prices for broadband services.
5206. Public notice, assessments, technical assistance, and reporting requirements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Rural Electrification Act focus on improving broadband services in rural areas. They involve adding technical assistance, ensuring that grants and loans target eligible unserved communities, and offering funds to organizations that aid in broadband planning and management. Additionally, funds are allocated for gathering broadband data to confirm service availability, with preferences given to experienced organizations, and limits set on grant amounts.
Money References
- “(3) LIMITATION OF GRANT AMOUNT.—The amount of a grant made available under this subsection shall not exceed $50,000.
5207. Limitation on overbuilding Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that an area will not be considered "unserved" for broadband services under the specified title if another federal or state program has already committed funding to provide broadband in that area within five years, offering speeds of at least 100 Mbps for downloads and 20 Mbps for uploads.
608. Limitation on overbuilding Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
If a certain area is set to receive broadband service as part of another Federal or State program within the next five years, and at internet speeds of at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, it cannot be considered as "unserved" according to the proposed regulations.
5301. Rural energy savings program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Rural Energy Savings Program section of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 has been updated to include more eligible entities, prioritize service to rural areas, and provide grants for energy efficiency projects. It outlines terms for loan repayment, limits on special advances, and conditions for providing grants, which can cover a portion of energy efficiency upgrades or offer outreach and technical assistance.
5302. Regional commission reauthorization Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 by extending a program for state capacity building and a regional commission's operation from the years 2019-2023 to 2025-2029.
5303. Promoting precision agriculture Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section aims to enhance precision agriculture in the U.S. by developing connectivity standards in collaboration with industry organizations and government agencies. It requires the Secretary to create voluntary, consensus-based standards within two years, while the Government Accountability Office (GAO) will evaluate these standards and their adoption every two years for a decade.
5304. Food supply chain guaranteed loans Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to introduce food supply chain guaranteed loans, which are intended to help finance projects that enhance the U.S. food supply chain. The loans, capped at $40 million each, can support activities like processing or distributing food and can be used in nonrural areas if they predominantly benefit rural, nearby communities. Additionally, up to 5% of funds for these loans are reserved for specific uses each year from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(3) LIMITATIONS.—The maximum amount of a food supply chain guaranteed loan shall not exceed $40,000,000.
5305. New, mobile, and expanded meat processing and rendering grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides for grants of up to $500,000 to eligible entities, such as public and private organizations, Indian Tribes, and colleges, to support meat and poultry processing and rendering activities. The grants aim to improve compliance with regulations, increase access to slaughter options, establish or expand facilities, and support cultural processing methods, with a federal funding share of up to 90% for smaller grants.
Money References
- (2) MAXIMUM AMOUNT.—The maximum amount of a grant awarded under paragraph (1) shall not exceed $500,000.
- (e) Federal share.—The Federal share of the activities carried out using a grant awarded under this section shall not exceed— (1) 90 percent in the case of a grant in the amount of $100,000 or less; or (2) 75 percent in the case of a grant in an amount greater than $100,000. (f) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029. ---
5306. Expanding Childcare in Rural America Initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Expanding Childcare in Rural America Initiative aims to improve access to quality, affordable childcare in rural areas across the U.S. by prioritizing loans and grants for projects that tackle childcare challenges. The Secretary will ensure these benefits are distributed fairly across different regions, evaluate the impact of funded projects, and report the findings to Congress.
5307. Technical assistance for geographically underserved and distressed areas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that the Secretary will provide technical help and improve access to rural development programs for local groups in underserved rural areas. It also specifies annual reporting requirements to assess the impact and defines key terms like "geographically underserved and distressed area" and "community anchor institution."
5308. Establishment of the Rural Development Innovation Center Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes the Rural Development Innovation Center within the Rural Development Mission Areas of the USDA to improve rural development programs by identifying process inefficiencies, fostering partnerships, implementing technological solutions, and creating a modernization plan. It also requires annual progress reports to Congress on the center's activities, stakeholder engagement, and modernization efforts.
379J. Rural Development Innovation Center Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Rural Development Innovation Center is established to enhance innovation in rural development programs by identifying inefficiencies, fostering partnerships, and utilizing technology. It focuses on improving program processes, accessibility, and modernization, while regularly updating a modernization plan and reporting its progress to Congress.
5309. Rural Health Liaison report Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a part of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act to require coordination with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture for stress assistance to farmers and ranchers and mandates an annual report to congressional agriculture committees detailing related activities.
5310. Precision Agriculture Task Force amendments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 involve extending deadlines related to precision agriculture from 2025 to 2026 and adding tasks for evaluating international standards and examining the impacts of precision agriculture technologies used by other countries.
5401. Water, waste disposal, and wastewater facility grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act by changing the years in which grants for water, waste disposal, and wastewater facilities are available. Instead of being available from 2019 through 2023, the grants will now be available from 2025 through 2029.
5402. Rural water and wastewater circuit rider program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Rural Water and Wastewater Circuit Rider Program is a national initiative aimed at helping rural areas manage their water and wastewater systems more effectively. The program provides expert assistance to eligible rural communities for various technical, disaster recovery, and infrastructure maintenance activities, with funding authorized up to $25 million each year from 2025 through 2029 to support these efforts.
Money References
- “(F) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this paragraph $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2025 through fiscal year 2029.”.
5403. Zero and low interest loans for distressed water systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a program that allows the Secretary of Agriculture to offer zero or low interest loans and other financial aid to rural water systems in distress. This assistance is aimed at improving the sustainability and financial stability of these systems, particularly those in disadvantaged or economically challenged areas.
5404. Tribal college and university essential community facilities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to change the funding period for Tribal colleges and university community facilities from the years 2008-2023 to 2025-2029.
5405. Emergency and imminent community water assistance grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to change the dates for eligibility under the Emergency and Imminent Community Water Assistance Grant Program from "2019 through 2023" to "2025 through 2029".
5406. Water systems for rural and native villages in Alaska Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the years mentioned in a part of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act related to water systems for rural and native villages in Alaska. The years are updated from "2008 through 2023" to "2025 through 2029".
5407. Rural decentralized water systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to provide grants to nonprofit organizations that offer loans and subgrants to low-income individuals for building and maintaining water and wastewater systems in rural areas. The grants also cover water quality testing and technical assistance, with the total funding authorized for these purposes set at $20 million annually from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(B) AMOUNTS.—A loan or subgrant made with grant funds under this section shall not exceed $20,000 for each water well system or decentralized wastewater system described in paragraph (1).
- “(e) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.
306E. Rural decentralized water systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this bill, the government plans to offer grants to nonprofit organizations to help people in rural areas get or improve household water well systems and wastewater systems. These grants can cover construction, repairs, water quality testing, and technical help, with a focus on safe and clean water, while ensuring that the total loan or grant support does not exceed $20,000 per system.
Money References
- (B) AMOUNTS.—A loan or subgrant made with grant funds under this section shall not exceed $20,000 for each water well system or decentralized wastewater system described in paragraph (1).
- (e) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
5408. Assistance to rural entities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 5408 of the bill amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to include definitions for "precision agriculture" and "precision agriculture technology." It also promotes the use of precision agriculture practices by supporting the purchase of related technology to encourage best practices, reduce costs, and improve the environment.
5409. Solid waste management grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to allow Indian tribes to receive solid waste management grants, and it updates the eligibility period for these grants to the years 2025 through 2029.
5410. Rural business development grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the dates in a law related to rural business development grants. It updates the period from "2014 through 2023" to "2025 through 2029" in the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act.
5411. Rural cooperative development grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to redefine cooperative development activities and adjust grant priorities, renewals, and reporting requirements for rural cooperative development, including changes to the submission and scoring processes for grant applications and extending the authorization period from 2025 to 2029. Additionally, it mandates annual reports to Congress by an interagency working group.
5412. Lender fees in guaranteed loan programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines changes to lender fees in guaranteed loan programs, specifying that the Secretary can charge up to a 3% initial guarantee fee and a 0.75% periodic retention fee on certain loans. Additionally, it requires public disclosure of the calculation and assumptions for any fee change at least 30 days in advance.
5413. Locally or regionally produced agricultural food products Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to change the applicable years for a specific provision from 2008-2023 to 2025-2029, focusing on locally or regionally produced agricultural food products.
5414. Appropriate technology transfer for rural areas program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the date range in the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act for the Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas program, changing it from the years 2008 through 2023 to 2025 through 2029.
5415. Rural economic area partnership zones Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to extend the expiration date of the rural economic area partnership zones from 2023 to 2029.
5416. Intermediary relending program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text describes a change to the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, specifically adjusting the dates in Section 310H(i) so that the intermediary relending program applies to the years 2025 through 2029, instead of 2014 through 2023.
5417. Rural health care facility assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to offer support for rural health care facilities by refinancing their debts if needed and creating a Rural Health Care Facility Technical Assistance Program. This program aims to help these facilities improve their financial planning, operational efficiency, and access to health services, while preventing closures and supporting essential healthcare delivery in rural areas.
Money References
- “(D) LIMITATIONS ON AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—To carry out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary not more than $2,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
5418. Elimination of prohibition on use of loans for certain purposes Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill removes Section 363 from the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, which means there is no longer a ban on using loans for specific purposes that were previously prohibited under this section.
5419. Rural Business-Cooperative Service programs technical assistance and training Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill modifies the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act by changing the years during which a program will provide technical assistance and training for rural business-cooperative services. It updates the timeframe from 2019-2023 to 2025-2029.
5420. National Rural Development Partnership Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act change the funding period for the National Rural Development Partnership from the years 2008-2023 to 2025-2029 and update another provision by replacing "2023" with "2029".
5421. Grants for NOAA weather radio transmitters Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the dates in a law about grants for NOAA weather radio transmitters, changing them from "2014 through 2023" to "2025 through 2029".
5422. Rural microentrepreneur assistance program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 379E of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act increases the maximum loan amount to $75,000, allows project loans to cover all expenses and up to 50% of building-related costs, and extends the program's timeline to 2025-2029.
Money References
- Section 379E of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 2008s) is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(4), by striking “$50,000” and inserting “$75,000”; (2) in subsection (c)(1)(A), by striking “shall not exceed 75 percent” and inserting “may be up to 100 percent, and a loan under this section for a project may be used to cover not more than 50 percent of any renovation, construction, or related costs of real estate improvements under the project”; and (3) in subsection (d), by striking “2019 through 2023” and inserting “2025 through 2029”.
5423. Health care services Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to change the years mentioned in a specific provision from “2008 through 2023” to “2025 through 2029”.
5424. Strategic economic and community development Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 5424 changes the dates in Section 379H(d)(4) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, updating them from “2019 through 2023” to “2025 through 2029”.
5425. Rural innovation stronger economy grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines amendments to the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy Grant Program, aiming to enhance career training, sector partnerships, and economic development initiatives in rural areas. It emphasizes the inclusion of educational institutions and local workforce boards, addresses workforce challenges, and ensures diverse grant distribution from 2025 to 2029.
5426. Delta Regional Authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section discusses changes to laws about the Delta Regional Authority, including extending funding from 2025 to 2029 and keeping the Authority active until 2029. It also clarifies that Sabine and Vernon are part of the area the Authority serves.
5427. Limitation on rural business investment companies controlled by Farm Credit System institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a law related to rural business investment companies by increasing the limit of control by Farm Credit System institutions from 50 to 75 percent.
5428. Rural business investment program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Rural Business Investment Program section of the bill updates the dates in the existing law to extend the program from the years 2014-2023 to 2025-2029.
5429. Technical corrections Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section of the bill makes technical changes to several parts of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, altering the word "urbanized" to "urban" in various sections of the law. The updates affect specific clauses identified by their corresponding United States Code (U.S.C.) references.
5430. Rural water and wastewater technical assistance and training programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to expand the rural water and wastewater technical assistance and training programs to include disaster and recovery assistance. This means that these programs can also offer help related to disasters and recovery, making the support more comprehensive.
5501. Guarantees for bonds and notes issued for utility infrastructure purposes Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 by extending the timeline for guarantees related to bonds and notes used for utility infrastructure from the year 2023 to 2029.
5502. Extension of the rural economic development loan and grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Rural Electrification Act of 1936 is amended to update the repayment terms for zero-interest loans, allowing the borrower to offer collateral instead of a letter of credit. It also extends the program funding years from 2025 to 2029.
5503. Expansion of 911 access Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a part of the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to change the years mentioned from "2008 through 2023" to "2025 through 2029," expanding the timeline for 911 access improvements in rural areas.
6101. National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics Advisory Board Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics Advisory Board is updated by increasing its members from 15 to 16 and by including a representative for industry, consumer, or rural interests in insular areas. Additionally, the board's term is extended from 2023 to 2029, and one of the board's paragraphs is modified to change the number from 7 to 3.
6102. Specialty crop committee Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the rules for the Specialty Crop Committee by updating how the Secretary appoints members, adding a period in one part, changing a date from 2023 to 2029, and replacing "executive committee" with "Secretary" in another part.
6103. Veterinary medicine loan repayment Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act to specify how veterinarian shortage areas are determined by the Secretary, including considering geographic and practice-specific shortages and creating prediction tools. It also mandates that veterinarians participating in similar programs are not disqualified from this program and requires a streamlined application process for future participants.
6104. Veterinary services grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Veterinary Services Grant Program section of the bill updates the existing law to redefine "rural area" and aims to enhance veterinary services in those areas by encouraging more veterinary practices there. It establishes a simpler application process and provides support for starting new practices, including covering costs like relocation, equipment, and housing for veterinary students and staff.
6105. Grants and fellowships for food and agriculture sciences education Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 1417(m)(2) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 changes the end year for grants and fellowships in food and agriculture sciences education from 2023 to 2029. This means that funding for these educational opportunities will now extend until 2029.
6106. Agricultural and food policy research centers Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6106 extends the authority for agricultural and food policy research centers under a specific U.S. law by changing the expiration year from 2023 to 2029.
6107. Education grants to Alaska Native serving institutions and Native Hawaiian serving institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 1419B of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 extends the term for education grants to Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian institutions from a maximum of 1 year to a period of up to 5 years and updates the deadline for these grants from 2023 to 2029.
6108. Nutrition education program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6108 of the bill modifies the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 by extending the deadline mentioned in Section 1425(g) from 2023 to 2029.
6109. Continuing animal health and disease research programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 1433 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 allows any unused research funds for a given year to be used in the next year. Additionally, it extends the deadline for subsection (c)(1) from 2023 to 2029.
6110. Extension and agricultural research at 1890 land-grant colleges, including Tuskegee University Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 to increase the funding for extension and research activities at 1890 land-grant colleges, including Tuskegee University, by raising the extension funding from 20% to 40% and the research funding from 30% to 40%. It also updates the title of "research director" to "agricultural research director" in various parts of the act.
6111. Scholarships for students at 1890 Institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text describes changes to the funding of scholarships for students at 1890 Institutions under the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977. It mandates specific amounts of money from the Commodity Credit Corporation to be made available for scholarships by certain dates and extends the availability of these funds until expended, including a newly added $100,000,000 by October 1, 2024; it also extends the relevant program's operations from 2023 to 2029.
Money References
- Section 1446(b) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3222a(b)) is amended— (1) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows: “(1) MANDATORY FUNDING.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall make available to carry out this section— “(A) $40,000,000, not later than October 1, 2019, to remain available until expended; “(B) $10,000,000, not later than November 17, 2023, to remain available until expended; and “(C) $100,000,000, not later than October 1, 2024, to remain available until expended.”; and (2) in paragraph (2), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”.
6112. Grants to upgrade agricultural and food sciences facilities at 1890 land-grant colleges, including Tuskegee University Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section provides funding for improving agricultural and food sciences facilities at 1890 land-grant colleges and extends the timeline specified in the existing law from 2023 to 2029.
6113. Grants to upgrade agriculture and food sciences facilities and equipment and support tropical and subtropical agricultural research at insular area land-grant colleges and universities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment extends the deadline from 2023 to 2029 for grants aimed at improving agricultural and food sciences facilities and supporting research in tropical and subtropical agriculture at certain colleges and universities.
6114. Matching funds requirement for research and extension activities at eligible institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the requirements for state matching funds for research and extension activities at eligible institutions. Starting in 2025, states must provide non-Federal matching funds equal to the amounts given to these institutions under specific sections of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977.
6115. New Beginning for Tribal Students Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill modifies the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act by removing a specific provision within subsection (b) and extending a date in subsection (d) from 2023 to 2029.
6116. Education grants programs for Hispanic-serving institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section amends a previous law to extend the deadline from 2023 to 2029 for a specific provision related to education grants for Hispanic-serving institutions under the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977.
6117. Binational agricultural research and development Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 introduces changes to facilitate cooperative agricultural research involving the United States, Israel, and other countries part of the Abraham Accords Declaration. It establishes a BARD Fund Accelerator to support and speed up mid-stage agricultural research through resources and services, providing guidance and technical assistance for collaborative projects among the involved scientists.
6118. Grants and partnerships for international agricultural research, extension, and education Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section modifies the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act to allow the Secretary of Agriculture to provide grants to universities for international agriculture research, extension, and education. These grants aim to strengthen U.S. competitiveness by enhancing educational content, promoting collaboration with foreign institutions, and supporting student and faculty exchange programs with international partner institutions.
6119. Research equipment grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 by extending the expiration date from 2023 to 2029 for a particular provision related to research equipment grants.
6120. University research Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes changes to the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 by updating the year mentioned from “2023” to “2029” in certain parts of the Act.
6121. Extension service Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the expiration year in a law related to agricultural research and education from 2023 to 2029.
6122. Supplemental and alternative crops Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill extends the timeline for certain provisions in the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 from 2023 to 2029. It also adds a new focus on studying the benefits and opportunities of supplemental and alternative crops like winter-planted rapeseed and canola.
6123. Grants for community college agriculture and natural resources programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act to create competitive grants for community colleges and technical schools supporting agriculture education, with a focus on workforce training and partnerships with local agriculture businesses for work-based learning. The grants aim to enhance educational and training programs in agricultural fields and extend the program's funding authorization to 2029.
6124. Capacity building grants for NLGCA institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The law is updated to extend the funding period for capacity building grants at NLGCA institutions from 2023 to 2029.
6125. Agriculture advanced research and development authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill modifies the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 to emphasize precision agriculture, redefine "eligible entity," and extend the duration of specific programs from 5 to 11 years. It also updates strategic planning and funding goals to address challenges in agricultural technologies and improve environmental sustainability, water conservation, and resilience to climate factors.
6126. Aquaculture assistance programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 by extending the existing date from 2023 to 2029, specifically related to aquaculture assistance programs.
6127. Special authorization for biosecurity planning and response Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6127 modifies an existing law by extending the deadline specified in Section 1484(a)(3) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, changing the year from 2023 to 2029 for biosecurity planning and response authorizations.
6128. Agriculture and food protection grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 establishes a grant program to bolster the United States' ability to protect its food and agriculture systems from various threats, such as chemical or biological attacks. The program provides funds to eligible entities like universities and federal agencies to support research, enhance teaching programs, and improve facilities related to agricultural biosecurity and cybersecurity.
6129. Distance education grants for insular areas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill proposes to change the expiration date for distance education grants given to insular areas, extending it from 2023 to 2029, as stated in the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977.
6130. Resident instruction grants for insular areas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act by changing the expiration year from 2023 to 2029 for resident instruction grants in insular areas.
6131. Repeals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill repeals several sections of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, including sections 1410, 1419C, 1447A, and all of Subtitle M.
6201. Sustainable agriculture research and education Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section extends the timeline for sustainable agriculture research and education programs from 2023 to 2029, by amending the relevant sections of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990.
6202. National Genetics Resources Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill increases the end date for a program related to national genetics resources from 2023 to 2029.
6203. Agricultural genome to phenome initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Genome to Phenome Initiative is updated by changing the deadline mentioned in the law from 2023 to 2029, as per an amendment to the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990.
6204. High-priority research and extension initiatives Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 1672 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 expands research and extension projects by introducing several new initiatives focused on areas like fertilizer use efficiency, tropical plant health, biochar, wildfire smoke, invasive species, microplastics, soil health, and more. It also sets future reporting requirements for these activities and extends certain timelines in the Act until 2029.
6205. Organic agriculture research and extension initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 1672B of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 extends the timelines within the document, changing several instances of “2023” to “2029.” It also involves renumbering certain subsections and removing a specific paragraph from the text.
6206. Farm business management Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6206 updates the expiration date of a provision in the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, changing it from the year 2023 to the year 2029.
6207. Urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural production research, education, and extension initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates existing law related to urban and innovative agriculture by expanding the scope of advisory responsibilities to include emerging agricultural practices, waste management to reduce environmental impact, and advising educational institutions on career and technical education. It also extends the timeline for certain activities from 2023 to 2029.
6208. Centers of excellence Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to establish centers of excellence for research, extension, and education in various agricultural areas, like aquaculture, biotechnology, and water quality. It specifies the types of institutions that can host these centers, their duties, funding terms, and the requirement for annual reports on their projects and results.
6209. ThinkDIFFERENTLY National AgrAbility Project Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section revises a part of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 by renaming a project to the "ThinkDIFFERENTLY National AgrAbility Project," adding provisions to support youth with disabilities interested in farming, and detailing funding changes, including $8 million in mandatory funding to carry out the project. It also updates the period for available funds and specifies that up to 15% of funds may be used for certain grants.
Money References
- Section 1680 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5933) is amended— (1) in the section heading, by striking “Assistive technology program for farmers with disabilities” and inserting “Thinkdifferently national agrability project”; (2) in subsection (a)(3)— (A) in subparagraph (D), by striking “and” at the end; (B) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (C) by adding at the end the following: “(F) provide education and support to youth and young adults with disabilities interested in farming and farm-related occupations.”; and (3) in subsection (c)— (A) in the subsection heading, by striking “Authorization of Appropriations” and inserting “Funding”; (B) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively; and (C) by inserting before paragraph (2), as so redesignated, the following: “(1) MANDATORY FUNDING.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall use to carry out this section $8,000,000, to remain available until expended.”; (D) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking “In general” and inserting “Authorization of appropriations”; (ii) by striking “Subject to paragraph (2)” and inserting “Subject to paragraph (3)”; and (iii) in subparagraph (B), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; and (E) by amending paragraph (3), as so redesignated, to read as follows: “(3) NATIONAL GRANT.—Not more than 15 percent of the amounts made available under this subsection shall be used to carry out subsection (b).”.
6210. Farming opportunities training and outreach Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 2501 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 extends certain activities related to farming opportunities training and outreach from 2023 to 2029 and specifies that these actions will be carried out by the Secretary of Agriculture through the Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
6211. National Rural Information Center Clearinghouse Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the expiration date of a provision in the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, extending it from 2023 to 2029.
6212. Repeal Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that Subtitle D of title XVI of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, which is a part of U.S. law, is being cancelled or removed.
6301. National food safety training, education, extension, outreach, and technical assistance program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The law amends the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 by removing subsection (d), reordering the remaining subsections, and changing the expiration date in subsection (i) from 2023 to 2029.
6302. Integrated research, education, and extension competitive grants program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies a previous law to extend the deadline for a particular research, education, and extension competitive grants program from 2023 to 2029.
6303. Support for research regarding diseases of wheat, triticale, and barley caused by fusarium graminearum or by tilletia indica Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section described extends funding for research on diseases affecting wheat, triticale, and barley, caused by specific fungi, from 2023 to 2029.
6304. Grants for youth organizations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 by extending the deadline for a provision related to grants for youth organizations from 2023 to 2029.
6305. Specialty crop research initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 to update provisions for specialty crop research funding, including adding a new program for mechanization and automation research. It specifies funding amounts and allocations for various programs through 2029, providing for waivers of matching funds in certain cases and reallocating unused funds to benefit the specialty crop initiative.
Money References
- Section 412 of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C. 7632) is amended— (1) in subsection (f)(3), by striking “subsection (d) and (j)” and inserting “subsections (d), (j), and (k)”; (2) in subsection (g)(3), by adding at the end the following: (3) in subsection (j)(5), by striking “subsection (k)(1)(C)” and inserting “subsection (l)(1)(C)”; (4) by redesignating subsection (k) as subsection (l); (5) by inserting after subsection (j) the following: “(k) Specialty crop mechanization and automation research and extension program.—The Secretary shall establish a competitive research and extension grant program to award grants to eligible entities to increase the competitiveness of specialty crops in the United States through the advancement and acceleration of mechanization and automation, including projects that— “(1) create or improve cost-effective mechanization and automation technologies to— “(A) reduce the manual labor requirements of a specialty crop grower; or “(B) increase the efficiency of— “(i) crop production; “(ii) resource management; “(iii) harvesting; “(iv) processing; “(v) post-harvest technologies; or “(vi) packing; “(2) increase adoption of mechanization and automation technologies by— “(A) emphasizing adoption drivers, including— “(i) connectivity; “(ii) autonomy; “(iii) reliability; “(iv) durability; “(v) in-field validation; or “(vi) cost-effectiveness; or “(B) investing in, and developing human capital to, increase the capacity to— “(i) utilize new technologies; or “(ii) manage a more tech-focused farm workforce; or “(3) accelerate automation and mechanization through— “(A) prototype development; “(B) in-field trial testing; “(C) ongoing industry engagement; or “(D) rapid commercialization.”; and (6) in subsection (l), as redesignated by paragraph (4)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in subparagraph (B), by striking “section $80,000,000 for fiscal year 2014” and inserting the following: “section— “(i) $80,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2024; and “(ii) $175,000,000 for fiscal year 2025,”; (ii) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows: “(C) RESERVATION.— “(i) EMERGENCY CITRUS DISEASE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION PROGRAM.— “(I) FISCAL YEARS 2014 THROUGH 2018.—For each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018, the Secretary shall reserve not less than $25,000,000 of the funds made available under subparagraph (B) to carry out the program established under subsection (j).
- “(II) FISCAL YEARS 2025 THROUGH 2029.—For each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, the Secretary shall reserve not less than $25,000,000 of the funds made available under subparagraph (B) to carry out the program established under subsection (j).
- “(ii) SPECIALTY CROP MECHANIZATION AND AUTOMATION RESEARCH AND EXTENSION PROGRAM.—For each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, the Secretary shall reserve not less than $20,000,000 of the funds made available under subparagraph (B) to carry out the program established under subsection (k).”; and (iii) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows: “(D) REALLOCATION.—Notwithstanding paragraph (4), any funds reserved under subparagraph (C) that remain unobligated at the end of the fiscal year following the fiscal year in which such funds are first made available shall be reallocated to carry out activities of the specialty crop research initiative established under subsection (b).”; (B) in paragraph (2)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking “for fiscal years 2014 through 2023”; and (ii) by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; (C) by striking paragraph (3); and (D) by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively.
6306. Agriculture grants for veteran education and training services Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a program where the Secretary of Agriculture will give grants to specific organizations, such as universities and nonprofit groups, to help veterans learn about farming and ranching. These grants, which require matching funds from the recipients, can be used for education, training, and other activities designed to encourage veterans to pursue careers in agriculture, with $3,000,000 authorized annually for 2025 through 2029.
Money References
- “(e) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.
414. Agriculture grants for veteran education and training services Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines a program established by the Secretary to provide competitive grants to eligible entities for creating and enhancing farming and ranching opportunities for veterans. It specifies the types of eligible entities, acceptable uses of grant funds, the requirement for matching funds, and the authorized appropriation of $3,000,000 annually from 2025 to 2029 for this initiative.
Money References
- (e) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
6307. Food Animal Residue Avoidance Database program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Food Animal Residue Avoidance Database program has had its authorization date extended from 2023 to 2029, according to the amended Section 604(e) of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998.
6308. Office of Pest Management Policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6308 updates a part of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 by extending the date mentioned from 2023 to 2029.
6309. Forestry products advanced utilization research Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 has been updated to extend the support for advanced research on forestry products until 2029, replacing the previous end date of 2023.
6310. Repeals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 by removing section 404 and section 411 from the Act.
6401. Grazinglands research laboratory Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Grazinglands Research Laboratory section of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 is updated by removing the clause that restricted its provisions to a 15-year period starting from the law's enactment date.
6402. Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network section of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 is updated to include crisis hotlines when supporting websites. The section also extends the relevant provisions until 2029, and allows grant recipients to establish referral relationships with various health clinics and hospitals to offer comprehensive mental health and substance use support.
6403. Sun grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Sun Grant program section of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 has been updated to include "bioproduct" alongside "technologies" and changes the term "product" to "bioproduct." Furthermore, the percentage in subsection (c)(2) has increased from 4% to 30%, and the program's expiration date in subsection (g) has been extended from 2023 to 2029.
6404. Repeals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section describes changes being made to the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008. Specifically, it mentions the removal of section 7521 and section 7525 from the act.
6501. Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994 is being updated to extend certain provisions from 2023 to 2029 and to ensure that specific funding levels are described as "not less than" a certain amount. Additionally, some subsections in the act have been removed or renumbered.
6502. Research Facilities Act Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Research Facilities Act to rename the section heading to "Funding" and starts a new provision for "Mandatory Funding." It requires $2.5 billion from the Commodity Credit Corporation to fund a competitive grant program for fiscal year 2025, with funds remaining available until they are used, and extends the authorization of appropriations to the year 2029.
Money References
- In general.—Subject to” and inserting the following: “(a) In general.— “(1) MANDATORY FUNDING.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall make available to carry out the competitive grant program under section 4, $2,500,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, to remain available until expended.
6503. Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative to include more emphasis on developing regionally adapted crops, enhancing aquaculture survival, and incorporating advanced growing techniques like hydroponics. It also expands funding to include educational institutions like career and technical schools, and adjusts workforce training priorities to focus on areas like meat processing and precision agriculture, while extending a specific funding authorization to 2029.
6504. Extension design and demonstration initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill extends the deadline in subsection (d)(6) of the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act from 2023 to 2029.
6505. Biomass research and development Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6505 changes the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act to extend the deadline for biomass research and development from 2023 to 2029.
6506. Renewable Resources Extension Act of 1978 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill extends the expiration date from 2023 to 2029 in two sections of the Renewable Resources Extension Act of 1978, which is part of U.S. environmental law.
6507. National Aquaculture Act of 1980 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the National Aquaculture Act of 1980 include correcting a spelling error, requiring periodic reviews and assessments every three years, creating an Aquaculture Advisory Committee to support the aquaculture industry, and extending certain provisions of the Act until 2029. Additionally, the Secretary must prepare an annual report to Congress on the status of aquaculture in the U.S., which includes evaluating federal actions and expenditures related to aquaculture.
6508. Reports on disbursement of funds for agricultural research and extension at 1862 and 1890 land-grant colleges, including Tuskegee University Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 requires the Secretary of Agriculture to annually inform each state with land-grant colleges about matching fund requirements by February 1 and submit reports to Congress by December 31 about whether states can meet these requirements. Additionally, governors must attest annually if their states can meet such requirements.
6509. Repeal Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section 6509 repeals Section 1431 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act Amendments of 1985, which was part of Public Law 99-198.
6601. Foundation for food and agriculture research Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends various parts of the Agricultural Act of 2014 to update references and requirements for the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research. It changes the organizations involved, updates the types of reports and information the Foundation must provide to Congress, and revises the description and specification requirements for gifts and grants received by the Foundation.
6602. Agriculture innovation center demonstration program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 6602 amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to allow the Secretary to waive certain board of directors requirements for Agriculture Innovation Centers if they have a board that can adequately fulfill the program's goals, and extends the program authorization to 2029.
6603. Livestock insects laboratory Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a law by changing the name "Knipling-Bushland Research Laboratory" to "Knipling-Bushland Research Center" wherever it is mentioned.
6604. Hatch Act of 1887 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Hatch Act of 1887 by changing references from "director" to "experiment station director" and removing mentions of "other officer" where these terms appeared in the text.
6605. Commission on national agricultural statistics service modernization Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Commission on National Agricultural Statistics Service Modernization is established to study and provide recommendations on modernizing data collection for agricultural statistics, improving collaboration and transparency, and reducing survey fatigue. The Commission will consist of 11 members, hold hearings, and submit a report with findings and recommendations within three years, supported by $1,000,000 in funding and set to terminate in 2029.
Money References
- (m) Federal advisory committee act.—Sections 1009 and 1013 of title 5, United States Code, shall not apply to the Commission or any proceeding of the Commission. (n) Termination.—The Commission shall terminate on September 30, 2029. (o) Funding.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall use to carry out this section $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, to remain available until expended.
6606. Restoration of 4–H name and emblem authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section restores the authority over the 4-H name and emblem to the Secretary of Agriculture, allowing them to grant or deny permission for its use, collect any related fees, and take legal action against unauthorized use. It clarifies that previous uses of the emblem that were lawful before a specified date remain unaffected and permits the Secretary to authorize or delegate use as needed.
6607. Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education, and Economics Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 to enhance coordination of research activities, establishing agreements between the Department of Agriculture and other federal agencies like the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, while outlining responsibilities for collaborative research, promoting data sharing, and supporting educational initiatives in agricultural science.
6608. Agricultural Innovation Corps Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Innovation Corps (Ag I–Corps) is established to help agricultural researchers, students, and universities explore the commercial potential of their lab-developed technologies through entrepreneurial training. Additionally, it offers grants for developing prototypes and concepts and may partner with other organizations to enhance entrepreneurship education. A report on the program's effectiveness is due by September 30, 2025, and every two years thereafter.
7101. Support for State assessments and strategies for forest resources Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
SEC. 7101 amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to extend the support for state assessments and strategies for forest resources until 2029, and it allows the Secretary to use other available funds under the Act to develop and implement these plans, with a spending cap of $10 million per year.
Money References
- Section 2A(f) of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2101a(f)) is amended— (1) in paragraph (1), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; and (2) in paragraph (2), by striking “to carry out this section” and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting the following: “the Secretary may use any other funds made available under this Act to develop and implement the State-wide assessment and State-wide strategy required by subsection (a), except that the total amount of combined funding used to develop and implement such assessment and strategy may not exceed $10,000,000 in any fiscal year.”.
7102. Forest Legacy Program technical correction Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Forest Legacy Program technical correction makes changes to the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 by allowing any state, instead of just Vermont, to be involved in specific forestry activities.
7103. State and private forest landscape-scale restoration program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment changes the year in Section 13A(l)(3) of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act from 2023 to 2029, impacting how long certain rules or programs will apply.
7201. Definition of at-risk community Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 redefines an “at-risk community” as an area that includes either an interface community near federal lands at high risk of wildfire or a group of homes with essential infrastructure that a wildfire risk assessment identifies as being at risk from wildfires.
7202. Promoting cross-boundary wildfire mitigation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 7202 updates the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 by changing the expiration year from 2023 to 2029 for a specific provision related to wildfire mitigation.
7203. Authorization of appropriations for hazardous fuel reduction on Federal land Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment changes the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 to extend the authorization of funding for reducing hazardous fuels on federal land from 2023 to 2029.
7204. Water source protection program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Healthy Forests Restoration Act to improve the Water Source Protection Program by defining terms, specifying project design requirements to protect and restore watershed and forest health, and setting priorities for project selection, such as reducing risks from drought and wildfire. It also requires cooperation with non-Federal partners, outlines conditions for working on adjacent lands, and includes provisions for funding and partner participation.
7205. Watershed condition framework technical corrections Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes technical corrections to the Healthy Forests Restoration Act by removing the words “protection and” from specific parts of the law, Streamlining the language in paragraphs (3) and (5) of Section 304(a).
7206. Authorization of appropriations to combat insect infestations and related diseases Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 to extend the deadline for funding intended to fight insect infestations and related diseases from October 1, 2023, to October 1, 2029.
7207. Insect and disease infestation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document changes the year mentioned in a specific part of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003, from 2023 to 2029. This part of the law deals with handling insect and disease infestations in forests.
7208. Stewardship end result contracting projects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes changes to the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 by encouraging the support and expansion of forest product infrastructure, increasing the duration of certain activities from 10 to 20 years, and removing specific legal exceptions in the contracting process.
7301. National and Regional Agroforestry Centers Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to establish National and Regional Agroforestry Centers, including defining 'agroforestry,' outlining responsibilities for research and support, and increasing funding to $7 million for fiscal years 2025 through 2029. It also emphasizes supporting agroforestry across various regions, addressing adoption barriers, and mandates a National Agroforestry Producers Survey every five years.
Money References
- “(g) Survey.—Not later than 5 years after the date of the enactment of the Prioritizing American Farmers and Agricultural Industry Over Bureaucracy Act and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall conduct a National Agroforestry Producers Survey.”; and (9) in subsection (h) (as so redesignated)— (A) by striking “There are” and inserting “In addition to amounts otherwise available, there is”; and (B) by striking “$5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023” and inserting “$7,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029”.
7302. National Forest Foundation Act Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the National Forest Foundation Act extend the authorized funding period from 2023 to 2029 and establish a new fund specifically for white oak restoration. This includes replanting, improving management and nursery stock, and adapting seedlings, with the National Forest Foundation allowed to accept donations for these activities and required to report annually on how funds are used.
7303. Conveyances and leases of Forest Service administrative sites Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section extends the deadline for conveying and leasing Forest Service administrative sites to 2029 and allows leasing for up to 100 years. It also expands lease options to include housing and services that benefit the National Forest System, and updates certain terms for clarity in the leasing process.
7304. Forest inventory and analysis Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978, aiming to improve forest inventory and analysis. These changes include the collection of new data on forest carbon, updates to national standards, and the integration of advanced technologies like remote sensing to monitor forest resources and carbon pools, with a focus on transparency, accessibility, and regular reporting.
7305. Reforestation, nursery, and seed orchard support Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the Secretary's responsibilities, through the Chief of the Forest Service, to support nurseries and seed orchards by partnering with various entities, sharing information, and providing assistance. It also establishes a grant program for projects enhancing nursery capacities and seed orchards, defines eligible recipients, and authorizes $5 million annually from 2025 to 2029 for these efforts.
Money References
- (d) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
7401. Categorical exclusion for high priority hazard trees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes that the Secretary must create a special rule to allow certain tree management activities near roads and recreation sites on National Forest System lands within a year. This rule will focus on high-priority trees that pose a danger, but it cannot apply to projects larger than 3,000 acres or areas like wilderness zones, and it must follow existing environmental laws and regulations.
7402. Collaborative restoration projects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 7402 of the bill amends the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 by increasing the maximum size of certain collaborative restoration projects from 3,000 acres to 10,000 acres.
7403. Wildfire resilience project size Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the size limit for wildfire resilience projects under the Healthy Forests Restoration Act from 3,000 acres to 10,000 acres.
7404. Fuel breaks in forests and other wildland vegetation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to increase the number of acres from 3,000 to 10,000 for activities related to fuel breaks in forests and other wildland vegetation.
7405. Greater sage-grouse and mule deer habitat Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The legislation amends the Healthy Forests Restoration Act to change the rules for managing habitats by removing some specific conditions, allowing habitat projects to either target greater sage-grouse or mule deer, and setting new limits on the size of these projects in forested and rangeland ecosystems.
7411. No additional consultation required Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section explains that if a land management plan by the Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management is approved, amended, or revised, there is no need to re-do consultations related to endangered species if a new species is listed, a critical habitat is designated, or new information comes up after the plan's approval.
7412. Good neighbor authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the "Good Neighbor Authority" in the Agricultural Act of 2014 to include Indian tribes and counties alongside state governors in managing forest restoration projects. It allows these entities to keep and use funds received from timber sales for restoration services, both under the same agreement and potentially others, and clarifies that these changes apply to projects started after the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act.
7413. Collaborative forest landscape restoration program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program by adding and clarifying certain proposals, such as those addressing pathogens, innovative implementation mechanisms, and enhancing watershed health, while changing details about the number of proposals funded per region and extending the timeline from 2025 to 2029.
7414. Public-private wildfire technology deployment and testbed partnership Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section establishes a pilot program led by the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior to evaluate new wildfire prevention technologies in coordination with various federal agencies and private or nonprofit groups. It sets guidelines for selecting participants, with an emphasis on technologies like artificial intelligence and 5G communications, and requires annual reports to Congress on the progress and findings of the program, which will run until 2029.
7415. Forest Service participation in Experienced Services Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Act of 2014 is being updated to change the focus from the term "ACES" to "Experienced Services." It removes certain technical terms and modifies the language to include professional or administrative contexts, while also eliminating a subsection entirely.
7416. Timber sales on National Forest System land Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends the National Forest Management Act to increase the limit on certain timber sales from $10,000 to $50,000. It also allows the Secretary of Agriculture to sell or dispose of trees and forest products without appraisal in cases of extreme risks like wildfires or insect outbreaks, following specific regulations.
Money References
- Section 14 of the National Forest Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 472a) is amended— (1) in subsection (d) by striking “$10,000” and inserting “$50,000”; and (2) by adding at the end the following: “(j) In the event of extreme risks to a unit of National Forest System land, including catastrophic wildfire, insect and disease outbreak, wind, hurricane, flood, drought, or to avoid impacts from such extreme events, the Secretary may, without an appraisal and under such rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary, dispose of by sale or otherwise, portions of trees, or forest products located on such unit of National Forest System lands.”
7417. Permits and agreements with electrical utilities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In section 7417, the Secretary can allow electric utility companies to cut and remove trees or other vegetation near power lines on National Forest System lands if it follows the land management plan, without needing a separate timber sale. If the utility company sells any of the removed material, they must give the proceeds to the Forest Service, subtracting transportation costs, but there is no requirement to sell the material.
7418. Cooperative agreements and contracts for prescribed fire Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The proposed section allows specific government officials to create agreements or contracts, lasting up to 10 years, with various entities, including states and tribes, to conduct or train for prescribed fires on federal lands. It also introduces a demonstration project allowing Indian tribes more flexibility in conducting prescribed burns and amends existing laws to support and fund these activities.
3. Tribal prescribed burn demonstration project Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows the Secretary to make agreements with Indian tribes for conducting prescribed burns on Federal land. These agreements can bypass some legal requirements by using approved burn plans and can permit tribes to handle the burns using specific standards and shared resources while ensuring cooperation with other government bodies to meet legal and regulatory standards.
7419. Utilizing grazing for wildfire risk reduction Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary, through the Chief of the Forest Service, to work with livestock grazing permit holders on Federal lands to create strategies for using livestock grazing as a method to reduce wildfire risks. This includes allowing grazing on unused areas during natural disasters, employing targeted grazing to reduce fire-friendly plants, using temporary permits for these purposes, and utilizing grazing for recovery after fires.
7420. Joint Chiefs Landscape Restoration Partnership program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 40808 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act specify that reviews must happen at least once every two fiscal years starting from 2023, and the timeline for certain activities is extended through 2029.
7421. Tribal Forest Management program technical correction Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes changes to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 by updating the language to describe a "program" instead of a "demonstration project" for tribal forest management, which clarifies that it is a formally established program.
7431. Community wood facilities program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Community Wood Facilities Program by updating its name, adjusting eligibility criteria, and changing the funding limit to $5 million. It also reshapes program goals, increases energy capacity allowances, alters cost-sharing provisions, and extends the program's expiration to 2029.
Money References
- Section 9013 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8113) is amended— (1) in the heading, by striking “Community wood energy and wood innovation program” and inserting “Community wood facilities program”; (2) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (1)(A)(iii), in the matter preceding subclause (I) by striking “woody biomass, including residuals” and inserting “primarily forest biomass, including processing or manufacturing residuals”; and (B) in paragraph (4), by striking “Community Wood Energy and Wood Innovation Program” and inserting “Community Wood Facilities Program”; (3) in subsection (b), by striking “to be known as” and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting “to be known as the ‘Community Wood Facilities Program’.”; (4) in subsection (d), by striking “exceed—” in the matter preceding paragraph (1) and all that follows through the period at the end of paragraph (2) and inserting “exceed $5,000,000.”; (5) in subsection (e)— (A) by striking paragraph (1); (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (8) as (1) through (7), respectively; and (C) in paragraph (1), as so redesignated, by inserting “or market competitiveness” after “cost effectiveness”; (6) in subsection (f)— (A) by striking paragraph (2); (B) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively; and (C) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated, by striking “use or retrofitting (or both) of existing sawmill” and inserting “construction, use or retrofitting of forest products manufacturing”; (7) in subsection (g)— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking “5 megawatts of thermal energy or combined thermal and electric energy” and inserting “15 megawatts of thermal energy or combined thermal and electric energy”; and (B) in paragraph (2), by striking “25 percent” and inserting “50 percent”; and (8) in subsection (h), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”.
7432. Wood innovation grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 involve changes to the wood innovation grant program. They expand the use of grants to include building new facilities for transporting materials that reduce fire hazards, prioritize projects using existing sawmills in high-unemployment areas, and update support for projects improving carbon reduction and local economy resilience. Additionally, a matching fund requirement is adjusted to cover 50% of the project costs.
7433. Forest and wood products data tracker Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to create a publicly accessible platform to track and report data on the carbon impacts of forest management and wood products, using programs like the Forest Inventory and Analysis and the Forest Products Laboratory. This platform will provide tools to calculate various carbon-related metrics, but it does not give authority to manage carbon credits from National Forest System lands.
7434. Biochar application demonstration project Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill establishes a program led by the Secretary, through the Chief of the Forest Service, to create biochar application demonstration projects aimed at promoting biochar use and commercialization. Eligible entities, including individuals, government bodies, or private organizations, can partner to carry out these projects, with a focus on turning excess biomass into biochar, boosting local economies, and minimizing fire risk in certain areas, all within a 5-year timeframe and with limited federal funding.
7501. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes "Save Our Sequoias Act" as the short title for the subtitle, allowing it to be referenced more easily.
7502. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section provides definitions for terms related to the management and conservation of lands and resources involving giant sequoias, such as "Assessment," "Coalition," "Reforestation," and "Tribe," among others, clarifying their meanings in the context of related projects and strategies outlined in the legislation.
7503. Shared stewardship agreement for giant sequoias Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a requirement for the Secretary to collaborate with the Governor of California and the Tribe to manage and protect giant sequoias. If they don't request to join within 90 days after the law is enacted, the Secretary will still proceed with implementing the agreement but will add them as partners if they request later.
7504. Giant sequoia lands coalition Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition is a group formed by various U.S. government agencies, state entities, and educational institutions to protect giant sequoia forests. They are responsible for completing assessments, overseeing protection projects, promoting collaboration, sharing information, and educating the public about threats to these forests, with support from the Department of the Interior.
7505. Giant sequoia health and resiliency assessment Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill mandates that within six months of its enactment, a coalition must submit a report on the health and resilience of giant sequoia groves to Congress. This report should identify and analyze the groves' risks from threats like wildfires, insects, and drought, consider current forest management impacts, suggest policy improvements, and include annual updates. Additionally, it requires creating a website for public access to assessments, updates, and project statuses, using the best available science and potentially new technologies.
7506. Giant sequoia emergency response Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress acknowledges an emergency on specific public and National Forest System lands that threatens giant sequoias due to wildfires, insects, and drought, necessitating Protection Projects to mitigate these threats. These projects facilitate expedited actions for forest management, such as hazardous fuels reduction, and are exempt from certain environmental assessment requirements for up to seven years, with the goal of improving the health and resilience of critical habitats.
7507. Giant sequoia reforestation and rehabilitation strategy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the Giant Sequoia Reforestation and Rehabilitation Strategy, requiring the Secretary to work with the Coalition to create and implement a plan within six months to restore giant sequoia groves. The strategy includes identifying groves needing regeneration, addressing barriers like funding and labor shortages, and ensuring genetic diversity. Additionally, it suggests potential public-private partnerships and legislative changes to aid these efforts.
7508. Giant sequoia strike teams Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section describes the establishment of Giant Sequoia Strike Teams by the Secretary, which will help carry out specific environmental and historic preservation tasks and projects related to protection and reforestation. These teams can include up to 10 members each, comprising government employees, private contractors, and volunteers from various organizations and institutions.
7509. Giant sequoia collaborative restoration grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a program for the Secretary to provide grants to organizations like nonprofits, local governments, and tribes to help protect and improve the health of giant sequoias. Priority for these grants goes to those who can make a big impact and support rural jobs, with the funds used for managing hazardous tree fuel, creating markets for removed materials, and supporting tribal conservation efforts.
7510. Good neighbor authority for giant sequoias Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text amends the Agricultural Act of 2014 to enhance good neighbor agreements for activities in Kings Canyon, Sequoia, and Yosemite National Parks. It specifies how funds from timber sales in these parks should be used for restoration services and giant sequoia conservation, and sets that this authority will end on October 1, 2029.
7511. Stewardship contracting for giant sequoias Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Healthy Forests Restoration Act to specify that the Director of the National Park Service is responsible for lands in Kings Canyon, Sequoia, and Yosemite National Parks, and it adds a focus on promoting the health and resilience of giant sequoias.
7512. Giant Sequoia Emergency Protection Program and Fund Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Giant Sequoia Emergency Protection Program and Fund is designed to support the conservation and management of giant sequoias on National Park Service and National Forest System lands, focusing mainly on making them more resilient to wildfires, insects, and drought, and secondarily on reforestation after wildfires. Additionally, at least 15% of the funds must support tribal efforts in managing and conserving giant sequoias, with the program and fund including the creation of a special account for financial contributions.
101123. Giant Sequoia Emergency Protection Program and Fund Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Giant Sequoia Emergency Protection Program and Fund aims to manage and conserve giant sequoias, especially against wildfires, insects, and droughts, with a portion dedicated to reforestation after wildfires. The program involves the National Park Foundation and National Forest Foundation and includes a joint fund for donations, ensuring at least 15% goes toward tribal management efforts. The program is structured to last for seven years and requires annual reporting on its progress and financial status.
7513. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 each year from 2025 to 2029 to implement the provisions of this subtitle and its amendments.
Money References
- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subtitle and the amendments made by this subtitle $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
7701. Rural revitalization technologies Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill changes the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 by extending a deadline from 2023 to 2029 for a section related to rural revitalization technologies.
7702. Resource advisory committees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act by allowing regional foresters to appoint members to resource advisory committees after conducting necessary reviews. It also extends the deadline from October 1, 2023, to October 1, 2029, and removes a subsection.
7703. Accurate hazardous fuels reduction reports Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires that starting from the next fiscal year, a report on hazardous fuels reduction activities, such as cutting vegetation to prevent wildfires, be included with the President's budget. It mandates standard procedures for data collection and accuracy, calls for making reports public, and involves a study by the Government Accountability Office to assess the implementation of these activities. No extra funds are authorized for these requirements.
7704. Special use authorization rental fee waiver Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows the Secretary, through the Chief of the Forest Service, to waive certain fees for using National Forest System land if it's fair and benefits the public. This applies to State or local governments (excluding certain utilities), non-profit organizations that further public welfare, amateur radio operators, or other cases deemed appropriate by the Chief.
7705. Charges and fees for harvest of forest botanical products Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a program for charging fees to individuals who harvest forest botanical products from National Forest System lands, based on their fair market value and associated costs. It also establishes guidelines for sustainable harvesting, allows for personal use without fees, and specifies how collected funds should be used and reported.
7706. Forest Service Legacy Road and Trail Remediation Program transparency Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates Public Law 88–657 to improve transparency in the Forest Service Legacy Road and Trail Remediation Program by requiring that a list of projects considered for funding be published annually for each region, with public input solicited and considered in the selection process. It also provides a definition for "region" as one of the 9 regions of the Forest Service.
7707. Direct hire authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section grants the Secretary the authority to hire Job Corps graduates directly into positions within the Forest Service, starting in fiscal year 2025, without following the usual hiring rules, except for certain sections that still apply.
7708. Improving the emergency forest restoration program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978 allows owners of nonindustrial private forest land to receive an advance payment covering up to 75% of the cost for emergency forest restoration measures, as calculated by the Secretary based on the fair market value. If these funds are not spent within 180 days, they must be returned within a reasonable timeframe as decided by the Secretary.
8001. Definition of advanced biofuel Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill updates the definition of "advanced biofuel" in the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to include "sustainable aviation fuel" along with "diesel-equivalent fuel."
8002. Biobased markets program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Biobased Markets Program in the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 require the Office of Federal Procurement Policy to provide educational resources and publicly report on the procurement of biobased products, with accountability measures included. Additionally, the amendments involve updating product classification codes to better support renewable and biobased products and extend certain program deadlines to 2029.
8003. Biorefinery assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to include innovative commercial-scale projects and expand the scope of products to renewable chemicals and biobased products. It also sets out new guidelines for project feasibility assessments, extends funding and operational timelines to 2029, and provides a framework for handling compliance issues for biorefinery assistance projects.
8004. Bioproduct labeling report Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a requirement for the Secretary of Agriculture to submit a report within one year about the effects of creating national uniform labels for various bioproducts, including bio-attributed products, biobased products, and renewable chemicals. It also mandates consultations with biomanufacturers, research entities, feedstock growers, and other stakeholders while preparing this report.
9004. Bioproduct labeling report Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of Agriculture is required to prepare a report within a year, analyzing the impact of adopting national uniform labeling standards for various types of bioproducts, such as biobased plastics and renewable chemicals, on factors like consumer trust and market growth. This process will involve consultations with bioproduct industry experts and other stakeholders to define key bioproduct terms.
8005. Bioenergy program for advanced biofuels Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend the timeline for certain provisions of the bioenergy program for advanced biofuels. Specifically, it changes the year mentioned in two paragraphs from "2024" and "2023" to "2029".
8006. Biodiesel Fuel Education Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 8006 states that the Biodiesel Fuel Education Program from the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, which was found in 7 U.S.C. 8106, has been repealed.
8007. Rural Energy for America Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Rural Energy for America Program under the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 aim to enhance the financial conditions of agricultural producers and rural businesses by expanding eligible projects and increasing grant amounts, including prioritizing certain farmers and economically distressed areas. Additionally, the Secretary is required to promote diversity in project types and technologies when approving grants or loan guarantees.
Money References
- Section 9007 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8107) is amended— (1) in subsection (b)(3)— (A) in subparagraph (D), by inserting “, cost savings,” after “savings”; (B) in subparagraph (E), by striking “and” at the end; (C) in subparagraph (F), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (D) by adding at the end the following: “(G) the potential of the proposed program to meaningfully improve the financial conditions of the agricultural producers or rural small businesses.”; (2) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (2)— (i) in subparagraph (F), by striking “and” at the end; (ii) by redesignating subparagraph (G) as subparagraph (H); and (iii) by inserting after subparagraph (F) the following: “(G) the potential improvements to the financial conditions of the agricultural producer or rural small business; and”; and (B) in paragraph (3)— (i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows: “(A) GRANTS.—With respect to grants made under paragraph (1)(A)(i), the amount of a grant shall not exceed— “(i) 50 percent of the cost of the activity carried out using funds from the grant for— “(I) a beginning farmer or rancher, a socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher, or a veteran farmer or rancher (as those terms are defined in section 2501(a) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 2279(a))); and “(II) a recipient with a proposed project located in an area where 20 percent or more of the population is living in poverty over the last 30 years, as defined by the United States Census Bureau, or an area that has experienced long-term population decline or loss of employment, as determined by the Secretary; or “(ii) 35 percent of the cost of the activity carried out using funds from the grant in all other cases.”; and (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking “$25,000,000” and inserting “$50,000,000”; (3) in subsection (f)(3), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; and (4) by adding at the end the following: “(g) Project diversity.—In approving grant or loan guarantee applications under this section, the Secretary shall ensure that, to the extent practicable, there is diversity in the types of projects approved for grants or loan guarantees to ensure that as wide a range as possible of technologies, products, and approaches are assisted.”.
8008. Feedstock flexibility Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend certain provisions related to feedstock flexibility from 2023 to 2029, updating the years mentioned in the relevant paragraphs of the law.
8009. Biomass Crop Assistance Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Biomass Crop Assistance Program section of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 has been updated to extend the expiration date from 2023 to 2029.
8010. Carbon utilization and biogas education program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section discusses the cancellation of Section 9014 from the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, which relates to the carbon utilization and biogas education program.
8011. Study on effects of solar panel installations on covered farmland Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates a study by the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to analyze the effects of solar panel installations on farmland, considering economic impacts, soil health, and compatibility with farming practices. The study will involve consulting various stakeholders, such as farmers and conservation organizations, and will result in a report with findings and recommendations within two years.
9015. Study on effects of solar panel installations on covered farmland Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to conduct a study on how solar panel installations affect farmland. This study will assess economic impacts, land use, environmental considerations, and compatibility with agriculture, consulting with various stakeholders and resulting in a report to Congress with findings and recommendations.
8012. Limitation on USDA funding for ground mounted solar systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section limits USDA funding for projects that convert farmland into solar energy production, unless the project meets specific conditions such as only converting a small area or being primarily for on-farm use. Additionally, projects must have a farmland conservation plan to protect and restore soil health, and failure to comply with the plan requires repayment of the financial assistance.
9016. Limitation on USDA funding for ground mounted solar energy systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, the USDA is prohibited from funding projects that convert farmland to solar energy production, with exceptions for projects that convert small areas or primarily serve on-farm energy needs. Additionally, applicants for certain projects must develop and fund a conservation plan to protect and restore soil health, or they risk repaying the financial assistance.
9001. Plant pest and disease management and disaster prevention Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends part of the Plant Protection Act by reallocating funding amounts for plant pest and disease management. Specifically, it designates $75 million annually for fiscal years 2018 to 2024 and increases the funding to $90 million for fiscal year 2025.
Money References
- Section 420(f) of the Plant Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 7721) is amended— (1) in paragraph (5), by striking “and” at the end; (2) by redesignating paragraph (6) as paragraph (7); (3) by inserting after paragraph (5) the following: “(6) $75,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2024; and”; and (4) in paragraph (7) (as so redesignated), by striking “$75,000,000 for fiscal year 2018” and inserting “$90,000,000 for fiscal year 2025”.
9002. Specialty crop block grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 by extending the program until 2029, updating the criteria for specialty crop support to focus on state-established priorities with input from producers, and revising funding amounts to $85 million annually from 2018 to 2024 and increasing to $100 million for 2025. Moreover, it specifies that state plans must clearly indicate how grant funds will enhance crop competitiveness and involve producer engagement.
Money References
- Section 101 of the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 (7 U.S.C. 1621 note; Public Law 108–465) is amended— (1) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1)— (A) by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; and (B) by striking “specialty crops, including—” and inserting “specialty crops through priorities established by State program administrators in consultation with specialty crop producers and producer groups, including—”; (2) by striking subsection (e), and inserting the following: “(e) Plan requirements.—The State plan shall identify the lead agency charged with the responsibility of carrying out the plan and indicate— “(1) how the grant funds will be utilized to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops; and “(2) how outreach to, and consultation with, specialty crop producers and producer groups will be achieved.”; and (3) in subsection (l)(1)— (A) in subparagraph (D), by striking “and” at the end; (B) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (F); (C) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following: “(E) $85,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2024; and”; and (D) in subparagraph (F) (as so redesignated), by striking “$85,000,000 for fiscal year 2018” and inserting “$100,000,000 for fiscal year 2025”.
9003. Specialty crops market news allocation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section changes the date in the law regarding specialty crops market news allocation, extending it from 2023 to 2029.
9004. Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act to support urban and innovative agriculture by providing technical assistance, promoting conservation, extending deadlines to 2029, and offering grants and cooperative agreements to help local governments, nonprofits, schools, and agricultural groups develop agricultural projects in urban areas. It also encourages waste-to-energy projects and provides resources for smaller farms to navigate regulations and business operations.
9005. National plant diagnostics network Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 9005 of a proposed bill updates the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 by extending the deadline for the National Plant Diagnostics Network's provisions from the year 2023 to 2029.
9006. Hemp production Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to define "industrial hemp" and establishes procedures for state and tribal plans to reduce or eliminate sampling and testing requirements for hemp producers who designate their crop specifically as industrial hemp. It also outlines consequences for producing hemp that does not match its designated type and involves the Department of Agriculture in monitoring and accrediting labs for testing hemp.
9007. Pilot Program for the Intra-Organizational Movement of Genetically Engineered Microorganisms by Certain Authorized Parties Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a three-year pilot program allowing certain authorized organizations in the U.S. to move genetically engineered microorganisms, deemed as plant pests or posing plant pest risks, between controlled facilities without a permit. It outlines specific eligibility criteria, application procedures, safety measures, and reporting requirements to prevent unauthorized releases, with the results and recommendations to be reported to Congress after the program concludes.
420A. Pilot Program for the Intra-Organizational Movement of Genetically Engineered Microorganisms by Certain Authorized Parties Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a pilot program for certain authorized parties to move genetically engineered microorganisms that might pose plant pest risks between facilities without a permit. It outlines application processes, criteria for responsible parties, and requirements for managing these microorganisms to prevent unauthorized release, with the program set to run for three years before a report is submitted to Congress on its findings and recommendations.
9101. Marketing orders Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Adjustment Act is being changed to include almonds in its marketing orders, and it removes the phrase “other than dates for processing” from the text.
9102. Local agriculture market program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Local Agriculture Market Program, part of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, has been amended to include new definitions such as "food hub," extend funding programs through 2029, introduce simplified application forms for certain grants, and allocate a portion of funds for streamlined grant applications to make it easier for small-scale local and regional food projects to access federal support.
Money References
- Section 210A of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1627c) is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (13) as paragraphs (6) through (14), respectively; and (B) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following: “(5) FOOD HUB.—The term ‘food hub’ means a business or organization that actively manages the aggregation, distribution, and marketing of source-identified food products to multiple buyers from multiple producers, who are primarily local and regional producers, to strengthen the ability of such producers to satisfy local and regional wholesale, retail, and institutional demands.”; (2) in subsection (b)(4), by inserting “, regional food chain coordination,” after “collaboration”; (3) in subsection (c)(4), by striking “stakeholders” and inserting “stakeholders before and after providing grants under the program”; (4) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”; (B) in paragraph (2)— (i) in subparagraph (I), by striking “or”; (ii) in subparagraph (J)(ii), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; or”; and (iii) by inserting at the end the following: “(K) to support the purchase of special purpose equipment.”; and (C) in paragraph (6)— (i) in subparagraph (B)— (I) by redesignating clauses (vii) and (viii) as clauses (viii) and (ix), respectively; and (II) by inserting after clause (vi) the following: “(vii) a food hub;”; (ii) in subparagraph (C)— (I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking “applications that” and inserting “applications, outreach, and technical assistance that would”; (II) in clause (i), by striking “or” at the end; (III) by redesignating clause (ii) as clause (iii); (IV) by inserting after clause (i) the following: “(ii) provide greater geographic balance relative to the benefits of the Program; or”; and (V) in clause (iii) (as so redesignated), by striking “are used” and inserting “be used”; (iii) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as subparagraphs (E) and (F); and (iv) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following: “(D) SIMPLIFIED APPLICATIONS.— “(i) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall establish a simplified application form for eligible entities described in subparagraph (B) that— “(I) request less than $100,000; and “(II) choose from the project categories described in clause (ii), which shall include a specific, limited set of key activities with predefined requirements established by the Secretary.
9103. Acer access and development program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 12306 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 introduces a process where the Secretary must consult with stakeholders from the maple syrup industry to shape research and education priorities before requesting applications for grants, and also extends the program's expiration from 2023 to 2029.
9104. Organic production and market data initiative Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 focuses on collecting and publishing data about the costs and prices related to organic milk production and includes funding of $10 million for the years 2025 through 2029, along with extending the program to 2029.
Money References
- Section 7407 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 5925c) is amended— (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (2), by striking “and” at the end; (B) in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (C) by adding at the end the following: “(4) collect and publish cost-of-production data for organic milk, through support from regional and national programs, including regularly reported data related to— “(A) the costs of major organic feedstuffs, including— “(i) the prices for major organic feedstuffs produced domestically; “(ii) the prices for imported major organic feedstuffs; and “(iii) all other costs relating to the production of organic milk; “(B) establishment of an Organic All Milk Prices Survey, which shall be analogous to the existing All Milk Prices Survey conducted by the National Agricultural Statistics Service, to gather and report monthly data about the amounts organic dairy farmers are being paid for organic milk and prices received for organic dairy cows, including— “(i) national data; and “(ii) data relating to, at a minimum, the 6 regions with the greatest quantity of organic dairy production; and “(C) periodic organic milk reporting under which the Secretary, using data collected by the National Agricultural Statistics Service, the Economic Research Service, or the Agricultural Marketing Service, publishes new periodic reports that include, or add to existing periodic reports relating to, data for organic milk, which shall be equivalent to data reported for conventionally produced milk.”; and (2) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in subparagraph (B), by striking “and” at the end; (ii) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (iii) by adding at the end the following: “(D) $10,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”; and (B) in paragraph (2), by striking “2023” and inserting “2029”.
9105. Organic certification Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 by extending certain reports and funding from 2023 to 2029, introducing a provision for the Secretary to offer technical help through various agricultural agencies, and increasing funding for international trade technology systems and data collection for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
Money References
- (d) Modernization and improvement of international trade technology systems and data collection funding.—Section 2123(c)(4) of the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 6522(c)(4)) is amended, in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “and $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2024” and inserting “, $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2024, and $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2025”.
2122B. Organic technical assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary is authorized to offer technical help, outreach, and education to aid organic farming using current programs from specific government agencies like the Agricultural Marketing Service, the Farm Service Agency, and others. The term "covered agency" includes a list of these specific agencies.
9106. National organic certification cost-share program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment extends the duration of the National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program by changing the end date from fiscal year 2024 to fiscal year 2029.
9107. Report on procurement Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary to deliver a report to the agricultural committees of Congress within one year, focusing on how domestic commodities are bought, challenges faced by nontraditional and local products, the quality and access to these products, and suggestions for improving the procurement process.
9201. Exclusion of certain substances Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, particularly focusing on defining terms like "plant regulator," "plant biostimulant," "nutritional chemical," and "vitamin hormone product." It also addresses exemptions for certain pesticides, including plant-incorporated protectants, from regulatory requirements if they are deemed unnecessary for achieving the Act's purposes or are adequately regulated elsewhere.
9202. Coordination Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section adds requirements for the Administrator of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to coordinate with the Secretary of Agriculture when developing risk mitigation measures and using data for pesticides. It requires economic analysis and public publication of any decisions, and both the Secretary of the Interior and Secretary of Commerce must be consulted in certain cases, but coordination can be waived with mutual agreement.
9203. Interagency working group Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act clarifies roles within an interagency working group by including the Director of the Office of Pest Management Policy in meetings, changes the frequency of report publishing to annually and requires these reports to be available on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website. Additionally, it mandates the working group to consult with industry stakeholders and nongovernmental organizations at least once a year, and requires the Administrator to consider input from relevant agencies before implementing policies related to the Endangered Species Act and pesticide registration processes.
9204. Uniformity of Pesticide Labeling Requirements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the labeling of pesticides must be uniform nationwide, preventing any state or local government or court from enforcing different or additional labeling requirements beyond what the Environmental Protection Agency approves. It also prohibits the EPA from making labeling decisions that contradict existing health assessments or cancer classifications for pesticides.
9205. Authority of States Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines an amendment to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, clarifying that local governments within a state cannot create or maintain their own rules about pesticides if those matters are already regulated by the state or federal authorities.
9211. Multiple crop and pesticide use survey Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to ensure that a survey on multiple crop and pesticide use is shared with the Environmental Protection Agency and the public, uses commercial pesticide data for better accuracy, and allocates specific funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation for the survey from the fiscal years 2019, 2024, and 2025, totaling $5.6 million.
Money References
- “(2) COMMERCIAL DATA.—The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Office of Pest Management Policy, shall obtain commercial data on pesticide use to inform the conduct of, and enhance the results of, the survey described in subsection (a).”; and (2) in subsection (c), by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows: “(1) MANDATORY FUNDING.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall use to carry out this section— “(A) $500,000 for fiscal year 2019, to remain available until expended; “(B) $100,000 for fiscal year 2024, to remain available until expended; and “(C) $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, to remain available until expended.”.
9212. Critical minerals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of the Interior, working with the Secretary of Agriculture, to evaluate minerals like potash and phosphates for their role in agriculture and consider their designation as critical minerals. Within 90 days, they must recommend policy changes to support domestic production and report on how these minerals qualify as critical, sending their findings to key Congressional committees.
9213. Safe harbor for certain discharges of wildland fire chemicals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section creates a temporary rule that prevents courts from stopping certain government and Tribal agencies, along with their agents, from using approved fire retardants and water enhancers in the air to fight wildfires, as long as they follow specific agreements. This rule will expire five years after it is enacted.
9214. Science Advisory Board of the Environmental Protection Agency Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Authorization Act by updating the list of Senate and House committees related to environmental and agricultural matters, ensuring that new agriculture-related committees and panels are included.
9215. Office of Biotechnology Policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Department of Agriculture is required to set up an Office of Biotechnology Policy to coordinate biotech-related policies and activities. This office will be led by a director who will develop policies, facilitate communication between agencies like the EPA and FDA, and work with stakeholders such as developers and researchers. An annual budget of $1,000,000 is allocated for this office from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(f) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.
220A. Office of Biotechnology Policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill establishes an Office of Biotechnology Policy within the Department of Agriculture, led by a Director appointed by the Secretary, to coordinate biotechnology-related policies and activities with other government agencies. The Office will manage various duties, including policy development, research coordination, and outreach, with an authorized budget of $1,000,000 per year from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- (f) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
10001. Specialty Crop Advisory Committee Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the establishment of a Specialty Crop Advisory Committee within the Federal Crop Insurance Act, which will help create and improve insurance policies for specialty crops. It defines the committee's structure, responsibilities, and duties and updates existing roles to better address the needs of specialty crop producers, ensuring they receive tailored policy and risk management support.
10002. Identification of holders of substantial interests Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 506(m) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act has been amended to require policyholders to give the Manager information about individuals or entities with a large interest in the policy. If policyholders don't provide this information on time, they might get an extension unless they might unfairly benefit from not sharing it, or if they try to avoid legal responsibilities. Additionally, the significant interest threshold is increased from 5% to 10%.
10003. Actuarial soundness of certain new products Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 506(n) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act requires the Corporation to regularly evaluate the new insurance policies or products for financial reliability and to work with relevant stakeholders to improve their financial stability if needed.
10004. Coverage of revenue losses Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 508(a)(1) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act allows coverage for revenue losses of insured commodities if market prices decline due to reasons not directly caused by the producer, as determined by the Secretary.
10005. Supplemental and aggregate coverage enhancements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The proposed change to the Federal Crop Insurance Act increases the maximum coverage levels for insurance, allowing farmers to choose higher protection levels up to 95% for certain areas, and also raises the government subsidy for insurance premiums, making it more affordable.
10006. Limitation on farm program participation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Federal Crop Insurance Act limits farm program benefits for certain crops. Starting in 2025, farms with coverage under the Stacked Income Protection Plan or supplemental coverage won't receive payments for seed cotton or other crops under specific agricultural programs.
10007. Limitation on interest accrual Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text amends the Federal Crop Insurance Act to limit the interest that an insurance provider can charge a producer who is late on paying their premium or fee, starting in 2025. The interest charged cannot exceed 1% per month for a maximum of 60 months.
10008. Crop insurance support for beginning and veteran farmers and ranchers Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Federal Crop Insurance Act to extend the definition period for a "beginning and veteran farmer or rancher" from 5 to 10 years and outlines how much additional insurance support they receive over ten years, with percentage points decreasing from 15% to 10% after the second year.
10009. Marketability Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 508(h)(4) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act clarify procedures for proposal reviews, ensuring that insurance providers involved in supporting new policy proposals have access to necessary data while maintaining confidentiality. They also establish guidelines for the timely distribution of resources to insurance providers and evaluate the marketability of new products based on the support of at least one approved insurance provider.
10010. Reinsurance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Federal Crop Insurance Act to provide extra financial support to insurance providers handling crop insurance in certain situations. It includes provisions for additional subsidies for loss adjustment expenses in specific states, ensures minimum reimbursement rates for insurance on specialty crops, and adjusts reimbursement rates for inflation starting from the 2025 reinsurance year.
Money References
- “(C) SHORT-TERM EQUITABLE RELIEF.—With respect to the 2022 through 2024 reinsurance years, in addition to the amount of reimbursement for administrative and operating expenses available for crop insurance contracts described in subparagraph (A), the Corporation shall use $50,000,000, to remain available until expended, to pay, with respect to such contracts, an amount that is equal to the difference between— “(i) the amount to be paid pursuant to the Standard Reinsurance Agreement for the applicable reinsurance year; and “(ii) the amount that would be paid if such contracts were— “(I) not subject to a reduction described in subsection (a)(2)(G) of section III of the Standard Reinsurance Agreement; and “(II) subject to a reimbursement rate equal to 17 percent of the net book premium.
10011. Revenue insurance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Federal Crop Insurance Act introduces a revenue insurance policy for sugar beet farmers starting in 2026. This policy offers protection against losses due to lower-than-expected sugar beet production or sugar content, and also covers price decreases in the refined sugar market.
508E. Sugarbeet revenue insurance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that starting with the 2026 crop year, the Risk Management Agency and the Corporation must offer a special insurance policy for sugar beet farmers. This insurance will cover losses due to below-average sugar beet production or quality at the cooperative level and any drop in the sugar market prices compared to what was expected at the start of the year.
10012. Pilot program to review effectiveness of coverage penalty Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill proposes a pilot program starting in 2025 to study how reducing insurance benefits affects late-planted crops like corn in Texas' North Plains and Panhandle. This program will run for at least four years, analyzing if planting late impacts crop yield and water use from the Ogallala Aquifer, with a report due in 2029 summarizing findings and potential policy changes.
Money References
- “(e) Partnerships.—Of the amounts made available in section 522(e)(2)(A)(ii), the Corporation may use not more than $200,000 to enter into a partnership or cooperative agreement with a nonprofit organization, State agency, or public university that is familiar with agricultural production in the region described in subsection (b)(1) to conduct the research and evaluation required under paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (c).”.
508F. Pilot program to review effectiveness of coverage penalty Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a pilot program starting in 2025 to evaluate how reducing benefits affects crops planted late, specifically in certain Texas counties, over at least four crop years. The program will suspend some insurance penalties, analyze data on planting dates and yields, and assess water use, with a report due in 2029. Up to $200,000 can be used for partnerships aiding the research.
Money References
- (e) Partnerships.—Of the amounts made available in section 522(e)(2)(A)(ii), the Corporation may use not more than $200,000 to enter into a partnership or cooperative agreement with a nonprofit organization, State agency, or public university that is familiar with agricultural production in the region described in subsection (b)(1) to conduct the research and evaluation required under paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (c).
10013. Program compliance and integrity Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Federal Crop Insurance Act to introduce more detailed processes and timelines for how insurance providers are notified, can appeal, and receive final determinations from the Corporation regarding compliance issues. It also updates the financial thresholds for certain payments to be no more than $4 million through 2024 and $6 million starting in 2025.
Money References
- (2) in subsection (l)(2), by striking “than” and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting the following: “than— “(A) $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2024; and “(B) $6,000,000 for fiscal year 2025 and each subsequent fiscal year.”.
10014. Reviews, compliance, and integrity Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Federal Crop Insurance Act to specify funding changes; it replaces the phrase "each fiscal year" with a more detailed allocation of $10,000,000 from fiscal years 2014 to 2024 and sets the same amount for 2025 and beyond.
Money References
- Section 516(b)(2)(C)(i) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act (7 U.S.C. 1516(b)(2)(C)(i)) is amended by striking “each fiscal year” and inserting “for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2024 and $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2025 and each fiscal year thereafter”.
10015. Whole Farm improvements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 522(c)(7)(E) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act requires an annual review by the Corporation of insurance limits related to various agricultural products to ensure they cover financial risks, and a report must be submitted to relevant Congressional committees summarizing the review and any policy changes for the next year.
10016. Research and development priorities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section details various amendments to the Federal Crop Insurance Act, directing research and development for insurance policies covering a range of agricultural issues. These include expanding revenue-based insurance policies for crops, creating new policies for wine grapes affected by smoke, mushrooms, and poultry, as well as studies on insurance for hurricanes, frost, and innovative cropping practices. The amendments require timely reports to Congress on these research efforts and their outcomes.
11001. Animal disease prevention and management Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines amendments to the Animal Health Protection Act, focusing on increasing funding for animal disease prevention and management programs. Changes include the allocation of specific amounts from 2025 to 2029 for different purposes like emergency response training, disease traceability, and infrastructure improvements, with increased amounts specified for the National Animal Health Laboratory and related initiatives.
Money References
- (b) Mandatory funding.—Section 10409A(d)(1) of the Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 8308a(d)(1)) is amended— (1) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows: “(A) FISCAL YEARS 2025 THROUGH 2029.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall make available to carry out this section $233,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, of which— “(i) not less than $10,000,000 shall be made available for each such fiscal year to carry out subsection (a); “(ii) not less than $70,000,000 shall be made available for each such fiscal year to carry out subsection (b); and “(iii) not less than $153,000,000 shall be made available for each such fiscal year to carry out subsection (c).”; and (2) in subparagraph (B)— (A) by striking “$30,000,000 for fiscal year 2023” and inserting “$75,000,000 for fiscal year 2025”; and (B) by striking “$18,000,000” and inserting “$45,000,000”.
- (c) Authorization of appropriations.— (1) NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH LABORATORY.—Section 10409A(d)(2)(A) of the Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 8308a(d)(2)(A)) is amended— (A) by striking “$30,000,000” and inserting “$45,000,000”; and (B) by striking “2019 through 2023” and inserting “2025 through 2029”.
11002. Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program review and report Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires a review and report on the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program to be conducted by a qualified institution within a year of the enactment. It involves evaluating various aspects like effectiveness, economic impact, benefits and burdens on cattle producers, treatment protocols, and funding. The report, due a year after contracting, should contain the review results and suggestions for program improvement.
11003. Dog detection training center Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a National Detector Dog Training Center to train dogs and handlers to protect U.S. agricultural and natural resources from foreign pests and diseases. It outlines the Center's duties, including training, collaboration with agencies and stakeholders, ensuring dog welfare, and providing adoption opportunities, and also discusses the potential for additional training facilities and requires a report to Congress on various aspects related to these efforts.
11004. Regionalization, zoning, and compartmentalization agreements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section amends the Animal Health Protection Act to allow the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to negotiate agreements with other countries to reduce the impact of animal disease outbreaks on exports, without limiting trade negotiations by the U.S. Trade Representative. It also mandates creating a system to quickly notify state agriculture agencies and producer organizations if certain import and export regulations are changed.
11005. Importation of live dogs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill introduces Section 10404A to the Animal Health Protection Act, outlining rules for importing live dogs into the United States. It mandates electronic documentation for dogs' health, vaccinations, and identification before import, specifies exceptions and conditions for certain cases, and empowers the Secretary to enforce these regulations with penalties for non-compliance.
10404A. Importation of live dogs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines regulations for importing live dogs into the United States, requiring health documentation, vaccination records, and import permits for dogs, except in certain cases such as returning pets, military dogs, and for research or veterinary treatment. It mandates the Secretary to establish implementation rules, enforce penalties for non-compliance, and manage a public database for import records.
11006. Sheep production and marketing grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends a part of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, removing a reference to $2,000,000 allocated for fiscal year 2019 and adding a provision for $3,000,000 to be available for fiscal year 2025 for the sheep production and marketing grant program.
Money References
- Section 209(c) of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1627a(c)) is amended— (1) by striking “$2,000,000 for fiscal year 2019, and”; and (2) by inserting “, and $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2025” after “fiscal year 2024”.
11007. Ensuring the free movement of livestock-derived products in interstate commerce Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section aims to ensure that products from certain livestock can move freely between states without additional state laws interfering. It gives farmers the right to sell their livestock products across state lines and restricts states from imposing extra conditions on livestock products that aren't raised there.
11008. Report on support for livestock and poultry producers during a foreign animal disease outbreak Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Secretary to prepare a report within six months about how ready the Department is to help livestock and poultry producers if an animal disease from outside the U.S. causes them economic harm. The report should evaluate current federal programs, identify any support gaps, and suggest legal changes to help protect these producers from financial losses. Relevant department officials must provide necessary information to the Secretary within 90 days to aid this report.
11111. Amplifying Processing of Livestock in the United States (A–PLUS) Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Amplifying Processing of Livestock in the United States (A–PLUS) section outlines changes requiring market agencies to disclose any ownership or financial relationships they have with meat packers, as long as these packers have a slaughter capacity below specific limits. It also ensures that these changes do not limit the Secretary's power to create or enforce rules that protect producers and maintain market fairness.
11112. Hazard analysis and critical control point guidance and resources for small and very small poultry and meat establishments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section creates guidelines and resources for small and very small meat and poultry processing establishments to develop Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans. It requires the Secretary to publicly provide scientific studies, best practices, and model plans, while ensuring confidential business information is protected.
26. Small and very small establishment guidance and resources Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary to provide resources for small and very small meat establishments to help them create safety plans, known as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans. This includes making scientific studies, best practice guidelines, and model HACCP plans publicly available, while ensuring that confidential business information is not disclosed.
14A. Small and very small establishment guidance and resources Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary is required to make available resources for small and very small poultry processing establishments, including scientific studies, best practice guidelines, and model plans for safety and control processes. Additionally, the Secretary must publish guidance on these requirements and ensure that any confidential business information is protected.
11113. Outreach on cooperative interstate shipment Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In each fiscal year from 2024 to 2029, the Secretary is required to conduct outreach to states that have their own meat or poultry inspection programs but do not have selected establishments. Additionally, by the end of each fiscal year, a report on the outreach activities and results must be submitted to specific committees in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
11114. Pilot program to support custom slaughter establishments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a pilot program that allows certain custom slaughter facilities to sell meat products directly to consumers within their state without federal inspection. These facilities must follow specific safety and labeling requirements, can only be approved in limited numbers, and are subject to periodic inspections. The program ends on September 30, 2029.
11201. Office of Homeland Security Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text amends the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act to expand the Office of Homeland Security's responsibilities. It allows the Secretary of Agriculture to collaborate with intelligence employees, conduct risk assessments, and report on vulnerabilities affecting the food and agriculture sectors, including threats like bioterrorism and foreign influence.
11202. Farm Service Agency Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Farm Service Agency section of the bill involves changes to the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994. It removes one numbered item from the list of functions and updates the numbering of the remaining items. It also modifies requirements for certain farm programs to ensure they are under the Farm Service Agency's control.
11203. Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates a part of a 1994 law related to the Department of Agriculture, changing the date from 2023 to 2029 for a particular provision.
11204. Natural Resources Conservation Service Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments made to the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 eliminate specific exceptions regarding subchapter B, chapter 1, subtitle D, from the duties outlined in subsections (b)(2) and (b)(5). Additionally, the term limit in subsection (g)(3) is extended from 2023 to 2029.
11205. Burden of proof for national appeals division hearings Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In the National Appeals Division hearings, the amendment specifies that it is the responsibility of the agency to provide strong evidence to support their decision if it has been challenged and found adverse.
11206. Termination of authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 to give the Secretary of Agriculture new authority to implement changes made by a law that focuses on prioritizing American farmers and reducing bureaucracy.
11207. Functions of the Office of Tribal Relations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The proposed amendment to the Federal Crop Insurance Reform and Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act requires the Office of Tribal Relations to advise the Secretary of Agriculture on policies affecting Indian tribes, oversee certain contracts and compacts with tribal organizations, and perform additional functions as deemed appropriate by the Secretary. Additionally, a minor wording change in another subsection is specified.
11208. Office of the Ombudsman Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section adds a new Office of the Ombudsman to the Department of Agriculture, which will help people navigate civil rights issues related to agricultural programs and ensure fair access to these programs. The Ombudsman will submit annual reports to Congress and will have access to necessary departmental records, with $1 million authorized annually for its operations from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- “(g) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated $1,000,000 to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.”.
310. Office of the Ombudsman Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes an independent Office of the Ombudsman within the Department to help customers navigate civil rights issues and ensure fair access to Department programs. The Ombudsman will access necessary information, provide annual reports to Congress, and a budget of $1,000,000 is authorized annually from 2025 to 2029.
Money References
- (g) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated $1,000,000 to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
11301. Agricultural foreign investment disclosure improvements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines various measures to improve the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act, including defining key terms, updating the existing handbook, establishing penalties for violations, and enhancing public awareness of agricultural land ownership reporting requirements. It requires the Department of Agriculture to share data with relevant committees, update its disclosure handbook regularly, impose civil penalties for non-compliance or false reporting, and conduct outreach to educate stakeholders about these requirements.
11302. Report on agricultural land purchasing activities in the United States by countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism and certain other countries Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security and other federal agencies, must submit an annual report to Congress assessing the national security risks associated with the ownership and management of agricultural land by foreign individuals from specific countries. The report must detail the amount and impact of land owned by these foreign entities, including any threats to food security, espionage, and critical infrastructure, while ensuring some parts remain classified for the protection of intelligence methods.
11303. Investigative actions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 has been amended to establish a Chief of Operations at the Department of Agriculture. This Chief will monitor compliance, conduct investigations against foreign threats to U.S. agriculture, and report findings. The bill also defines a "foreign entity of concern" as stated in a previous defense act.
4. Investigative actions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to appoint a Chief of Operations for Investigative Actions, who will lead efforts to monitor and enforce compliance with the act, investigate threats to U.S. agriculture, and collaborate with other federal agencies. The Chief of Operations will also conduct audits, report potential national security risks, and issue annual summaries of reports received.
11304. Digitization and consolidation of foreign land ownership data collection and publication Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the creation of a digital database to track agricultural land owned by foreign persons in the United States. It mandates electronic submissions of related data, subject to audits, and allocates $10 million for its implementation, while removing a previous law.
Money References
- (f) Funding.—Out of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall use $10,000,000, to remain available until expended, to carry out the requirements of this section.
11401. Thrifty food plan Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Thrifty Food Plan section updates how food allowances are calculated for families based on a diet needed to feed a family of four. The plan includes specific household-size adjustments, allows for periodic reevaluation of market baskets, mandates annual cost adjustments based on inflation, and adjusts costs for certain U.S. regions and territories, ensuring these changes remain cost-neutral.
11402. Establishment of dietary guidelines Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amended law specifies that the Secretaries, with input from an Independent Advisory Board, will update the dietary guidelines based on significant scientific agreement and new evidence every ten years. It requires transparency in the review process, ensures the guidelines are accessible to all, and allocates funding for these tasks through 2029.
Money References
- “(9) FUNDING.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary of Agriculture shall make available to carry out this subsection $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029, to remain available until expended.”.
11403. Organic or non-organic Whole milk permissible Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows schools in the lunch program to offer students a variety of milk options, including flavored and unflavored, organic or non-organic whole, low-fat, and lactose-free milk. It also prohibits the counting of milk fat as saturated fat in meals and bans schools from buying milk from Chinese state-owned companies but ensures they can offer the milk options specified.
11404. Commission on Farm Transitions—Needs for 2050 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to require the establishment of a commission within 60 days to study and make recommendations on farm transitions. It expands the focus to include apprenticeships, mentoring, business training, and technical assistance, as well as addressing state and federal policies, heirs' property, challenges faced by underserved and women farmers, and foreign leasing and ownership trends. The timeline for the commission's report is extended to two years, and its authority is extended to 2029.
11405. Report on personnel Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text amends a section of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 by extending the expiration year from 2023 to 2029.
11406. Improvements to United States Drought Monitor Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to extend the duration for improvements to the United States Drought Monitor from 2023 to 2029.
11407. Agricultural fiber products trust fund Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Agricultural Fiber Products Trust Fund is established to help domestic manufacturers by reducing tariff-related injuries and providing grants. It will receive $50 million annually from 2025 to 2029, to be shared among promoting wool and cotton goods, and for wool research, with specific conditions for funding distribution and affidavit submissions. The previous trust fund under the Agricultural Act of 2014 will end on January 1, 2025.
Money References
- (iii) Fifty percent of the amounts made available in subsection (c)(2)(A) shall be paid to manufacturers who cut and sew cotton shirts in the United States who certify that they used imported cotton fabric during the prior calendar year, to be allocated to each such manufacturer in an amount that bears the same ratio as— (I) the dollar value (excluding duty, shipping, and related costs) of imported woven cotton shirting fabric of 80s or higher count and 2-ply in warp purchased by the manufacturer during the prior calendar year (as evidenced by an affidavit provided by the manufacturer that meets the requirements of subparagraph (C)) used in the manufacturing of men’s and boys’ cotton shirts; bears to (II) the dollar value (excluding duty, shipping, and related costs) of the fabric described in subclause (I) purchased during the prior calendar year by all manufacturers who qualify under this clause.
- (B) AFFIDAVIT OF YARN SPINNERS.—The affidavit required by subparagraph (A)(ii)(I)(aa) is a notarized affidavit provided annually by an officer of a producer of ring spun yarns that affirms— (i) that the producer used pima cotton during the year in which the affidavit is filed and during the prior calendar year to produce ring spun cotton yarns in the United States, measuring less than 83.33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number), in single and plied form; (ii) the quantity, measured in pounds, of ring spun cotton yarns, measuring less than 83.33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number), in single and plied form during the prior calendar year; (iii) that the producer maintains supporting documentation showing the quantity of such yarns produced, and evidencing the yarns as ring spun cotton yarns, measuring less than 83.33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number), in single and plied form during the prior calendar year; and (iv) the dollar amount of pima cotton purchased during the prior calendar year— (I) that was used in spinning any cotton yarns; and (II) for which the producer maintains supporting documentation.
- — (i) IN GENERAL.—The affidavit required by subparagraph (A)(iii)(I) is a notarized affidavit provided annually by an officer of a manufacturer of men’s and boys’ shirts that affirms— (I) that the manufacturer used imported cotton fabric during the year in which the affidavit is filed and during the prior calendar year, to cut and sew men’s and boys’ woven cotton shirts in the United States; (II) the dollar value of imported woven cotton shirting fabric of 80s or higher count and 2-ply in warp purchased by the manufacturer during the prior calendar year; (III) that the manufacturer maintains invoices along with other supporting documentation (such as price lists and other technical descriptions of the fabric qualities) showing the dollar value of such fabric purchased, the date of purchase, and evidencing the fabric as woven cotton fabric of 80s or higher count and 2-ply in warp; and (IV) that the fabric was suitable for use in the manufacturing of men’s and boys’ cotton shirts.
- (ii) DATE OF PURCHASE.—For purposes of the affidavit under clause (i), the date of purchase shall be the invoice date, and the dollar value shall be determined excluding duty, shipping, and related costs.
- (3) WOOL RESEARCH AND PROMOTION.—From the amount made available in subsection (c) the Secretary shall make payments annually beginning in calendar year 2025 for the purpose described in subsection (a)(3). (c) Funding.— (1) IN GENERAL.—Of the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall transfer to the Trust Fund $50,000,000 for each of the calendar years 2025 through 2029.
- (2) DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS.—The funds made available under paragraph (1), shall be distributed to the purposes of this section in the following manner: (A) Not less than $30,000,000 for each of the calendar years 2025 through 2029 for the purposes described in (a)(1).
- (B) Not less than $17,750,000 for each of the calendar years 2025 through 2029 for the purposes described in (a)(2).
- (C) Not less than $2,250,000 for each of the calendar years 2025 through 2029 for the purposes described in (a)(3).
11408. Reports on land access and farmland ownership data collection Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In the amendment to Section 12607 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, the update requires the Secretary of Agriculture to report on land access and farmland ownership data at least every two years and adds a requirement to catalog various programs that help access land and resources. Additionally, the deadline for certain actions has been extended from 2023 to 2029.
11409. Increasing transparency regarding detention of imported plants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that within 180 days of the law's enactment, the Secretary, along with key agencies, must provide guidance on how importers of plants denied entry into the U.S. under the Lacey Act can access detailed reasons for the detention and understand the anticipated duration, the tests conducted, and any information that could help resolve the issue faster.
11410. Enhancement of pet protections Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to submit a report on the enforcement and effectiveness of the Animal Welfare Act concerning companion animals, suggests improvements to standards and educational efforts, and outlines rules for addressing unrelieved suffering in dogs, including possible confiscation. It also includes changes to require visual dental exams as part of veterinary care and amends definitions and subsections of the Act.
11411. Protecting animals with shelter Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 11411 of the bill extends the protection for animals with shelter by amending the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. It changes the end date from 2023 to 2029, ensuring the provisions remain effective for an additional six years.
11412. Report on available assistance to agricultural producers in the State of Texas that have suffered economic losses due to the failure of Mexico to deliver water Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary is required to submit a report to specific Congressional committees within 180 days of this Act's enactment. The report must detail the Department's current authorities and programs that can assist Texan farmers who've experienced economic losses because Mexico hasn't delivered water as agreed in a 1944 treaty.
11413. Experienced services program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of Agriculture is directed to use the skills of people aged 55 or older, who are not department employees, to assist with various programs, except for the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Forest Service. Agreements and funding from the Food Security Act of 1985 will support this initiative, and liability rules for these individuals are specified in the same act.
11414. Agricultural Labor Survey Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, the Secretary is instructed to modify the Agricultural Labor Survey to collect data on the average hourly wage for farm workers and ensure the survey includes all agricultural employers and labor contractors. Additionally, a report must be submitted to Congress within 18 months, detailing the survey's quality, response rates, wage trends, and the impact of labor costs on agricultural employers and workers.
11415. Extension of Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 has been updated to extend its provisions, such as payments to states and counties with federal lands, funding for special projects, and authority to use county funds, through various new expiration dates, generally shifting from 2023-2026 to 2026-2029.
11416. Commodity futures trading commission whistleblower program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends parts of a previous law to extend the Commodity Futures Trading Commission's whistleblower program from the year 2024 to 2026.
11417. Qualified renewable biomass Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section defines "qualified renewable biomass" as specific types of forest and manufacturing waste that can be used as an energy source, ensuring that such usage does not lead to deforestation. It obligates the Department of Agriculture to consider these biomass types as renewable energy and sets guidance to support agencies in developing policies that align with these definitions, ensuring minimal greenhouse emissions.