Agriculture

Meals for At-Risk Americans Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2023

Soil CARE Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2023

Soil Conservation And Regeneration Education Act of 2023 or the Soil CARE Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a training program for biological soil health management in Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs. Under the bill, biological soil health management means land management methods used to increase and balance soil biology, such as microbial biomass and macrofauna, for the purpose of improving biological functions, including forming and stabilizing soil structure, cycling nutrients, controlling pests and disease, and degrading or detoxifying contaminants. The training program must (1) provide education, resources, and technical support to USDA personnel and third-party providers on the rapidly evolving methodologies, science, and practices for improving soil health; and (2) assist USDA personnel and third-party providers in supporting agricultural producers in understanding and implementing biological soil health management systems that regenerate farmland. The training program must be available twice every two years in each NRCS region and include both an online curriculum and in-person training workshops. The training program must be developed and delivered through cooperative agreements with entities with biological soil health management systems expertise and experience working with and training producers. The bill includes minimum curriculum requirements for the training program, including specific units on soil health and diversified production systems. USDA must review and update the training program curriculum every two years.

A resolution recognizing the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership.

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2023

This resolution recognizes the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership and the contributions of Ducks Unlimited and USA Rice to environmental stewardship.

A resolution expressing support for the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as "National 4-H Week".

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2023

This resolution supports the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as National 4–H Week and recognizes the important role of 4–H in youth development and education.

Expressing support for the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as "National 4-H Week".

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2023

This resolution supports the designation of National 4–H Week and recognizes the important role of 4–H as the youth development program of the nation's Cooperative Extension System and the Department of Agriculture.

USDA Express Loan Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2023

Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2023

Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act This bill provides continuing FY2024 appropriations to federal agencies through November 17, 2023, and provides emergency funding for disaster relief. It also extends several expiring programs and authorities, including several Federal Aviation Administration programs, the National Flood Insurance Program, Federal Drug Administration user fees for animal drug applications, and several public health programs. DIVISION A--CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024 This division provides continuing FY2024 appropriations to federal agencies through the earlier of November 17, 2023, or the enactment of the applicable appropriations act. It is known as a continuing resolution (CR) and prevents a government shutdown that would otherwise occur if the FY2024 appropriations bills have not been enacted when FY2024 begins on October 1, 2023. The CR funds most programs and activities at the FY2023 levels with several exceptions that provide funding flexibility and additional appropriations for various programs. This division also provides emergency funding to respond to natural disasters. (Sec. 101) This section provides FY2024 appropriations to federal agencies for continuing projects or activities at the levels and under the conditions included in specified FY2023 appropriations acts. The section also extends several immigration-related programs and specifies several exceptions. (Sec. 102) This section prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD) from funding new or accelerated production of certain projects and other activities and certain multiyear procurements prior to the enactment of the regular annual appropriations act. (Sec. 103) This section specifies that funds provided by Section 101 of this division shall be available to the extent and in the manner that would be provided in the pertinent appropriations act. (Sec. 104) This section generally prohibits appropriations provided by Section 101 of this division from being used to initiate or resume any project or activity that was not funded during FY2023. (Sec. 105) This section specifies that appropriations provided by the CR are to be used to conduct FY2024 activities and programs during the period of the CR. (Sec. 106) This section continues the appropriations provided by this division through the earlier of November 17, 2023, or the enactment of the applicable appropriations act. (Sec. 107) This section requires expenditures for activities funded in this division to be charged to the full-year appropriations bill and relevant account when the applicable appropriations bill becomes law. (Sec. 108) This section waives the normal time limitations for submission and approval of apportionments of accounts funded in annual appropriations acts. (Sec. 109) This section limits disbursements for programs that would otherwise have high initial rates of operation or would complete distribution of funding at the beginning of the fiscal year if those actions would impinge on final congressional funding prerogatives. (Sec. 110) This section requires this division to be implemented so that only the most limited funding action permitted by this division is taken in order to provide for continuation of projects and activities. (Sec. 111) This section continues funding for certain appropriated entitlements and other mandatory payments with budget authority provided in an FY2023 appropriations act at the rate necessary to maintain program levels under current law. It also provides authority to obligate funds for mandatory payments that are due up to 30 days following the expiration of the CR. (Sec. 112) This section permits funding made available by this division for civilian personnel compensation and benefits in each department and agency to be apportioned at the rate necessary to avoid furloughs. It also requires all necessary actions to reduce or defer non-personnel-related administrative expenses to be taken prior to using this authority. (Sec. 113) This section permits funds appropriated by this division to be obligated and expended notwithstanding specified statutory provisions restricting appropriations for foreign assistance, the Department of State, international broadcasting, and intelligence activities in the absence of prior authorizations. (Sec. 114) This section extends designations of emergency requirements to funds provided by this division that previously carried those designations. (Emergency spending is generally exempt from discretionary spending limits.) This section also extends other specified designations (e.g. disaster relief funds) to funds provided by this division. (These designations generally allow adjustments to discretionary spending limits to accommodate additional spending for specified purposes.) (Sec. 115) This section sets forth requirements for the treatment of rescissions when federal agencies implement the funding levels provided by the CR. (Sec. 116) This section allows the Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Farm Service Agency to apportion funding for the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund Program account at the rate necessary to accommodate approved applications for direct and guaranteed farm ownership loans. (Sec. 117) This section allows USDA to apportion funding at the rate necessary to maintain activities for the Rural Housing Service's Rental Assistance Program. (Sec. 118) This section allows USDA to apportion funding at the rate necessary to maintain participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). (Sec. 119) This section allows USDA to apportion funding at the rate necessary to maintain the current program caseload for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program. (Sec. 120) This section extends various authorities under the Livestock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999, which requires buyers of live cattle, swine, and lamb and sellers of wholesale beef, pork, and lamb to report prices, volumes, and other marketing characteristics to USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service. (Sec. 121) This section allows the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to apportion funding for Salaries and Expenses at the rate necessary to administer broadband programs. (Sec. 122) This section extends the availability of specified funds that were provided to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for Space Operations. (Sec. 123) This section extends the U.S. Parole Commission through the duration of the CR. (Sec. 124) This section allows DOD to obligate specified funds from the Shipbuilding and Conversion, Navy account for the procurement of one Columbia Class Submarine. (Sec. 125) This section extends the authority for DOD to provide physical protection and personal security for certain former or retired DOD officials who face serious and credible threats arising from duties performed while employed by DOD. (Sec. 126) This section provides additional funding to the Office of Personnel Management for Salaries and Expenses. (Sec. 127) This section authorizes the District of Columbia to spend local funds at the rates set forth in the Fiscal Year 2024 Local Budget Act of 2023 for programs and activities that were funded in FY2023. (Sec. 128) This section allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to apportion funding for the Disaster Relief Fund at the rate necessary to carry out response and recovery activities under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. (Sec. 129) This section provides emergency funding to FEMA for the Disaster Relief Fund. It also requires specified funds to be transferred to the Office of the Inspector General for related audits and activities. (Sec. 130) This section reauthorizes the National Flood Insurance Program through November 17, 2023. (Sec. 131) This section extends the authority for the Department of Homeland Security's National Cybersecurity Protection System (commonly known as EINSTEIN) and related reporting requirements. (Sec. 132) This section allows the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service to apportion funds at the rate necessary to continue funding a base salary increase for federal wildland firefighters. (Sec. 133) This section extends funding for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. (Sec. 134) This section extends the authority for DOD to obligate funds for certain military construction projects. (Sec. 135) This section extends the authority for the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development to hire certain Personal Service Contractors. (Sec. 136) This section extends the term of a member of the board of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. (Sec. 137) This section makes additional funding available to the Federal Aviation Administration for the personnel and related expenses funded by the Facilities and Equipment account. DIVISION B--OTHER MATTERS TITLE I--EXTENSIONS AND OTHER MATTERS (Sec. 2101) This section extends through November 17, 2023, certain provisions of the Compact of Free Association with the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) that provide grants and other financial assistance for the FSM. The section also extends the authority for certain federal programs and services in the FSM and the Republic of the Marshall Islands until new federal programs and services agreements take effect. (Sec. 2102) This section extends the deadlines for the Department of the Interior to issue proposed and final regulations pursuant to negotiated rulemaking for the Tribal Self-Governance Program. (The PROGRESS for Indian Tribes Act revised Interior's process for approving self-governance compacts and funding agreements with tribes. The act also authorized a negotiated rulemaking committee to negotiate and promulgate regulations for its implementation.) TITLE II--FAA EXTENSION This title temporarily extends specific Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs and activities. Subtitle A--Federal Aviation Programs (Sec. 2201) This section extends through December 31, 2023, the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). This program provides grants for planning, development, and noise compatibility projects at or associated with certain public-use airports. (Sec. 2202) This section extends through December 31, 2023, certain expiring Department of Transportation (DOT) and FAA authorities and programs. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority of DOT to provide insurance and reinsurance for the federal government for risks from operating an aircraft and providing related goods or services. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the FAA's Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Site Program, which provides verification of the safety of public and civil UAS, operations, and related navigation procedures before their integration into the national airspace system. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority of DOT to provide exemptions from some requirements for UAS by using a risk-based approach to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the national airspace system. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the FAA's airport safety and airspace hazard mitigation and enforcement program to test and evaluate technologies or systems that detect and mitigate potential aviation safety risks posed by UAS. This section extends through December 31, 2023, competitive access disclosure requirements for AIP grant applications for large and medium hub airports. Specifically, an airport must provide assurances to DOT that it will report if it has been unable to accommodate one or more requests by an air carrier for access to gates or other facilities at that airport in order to provide service or expanded service. This section extends authorization through December 31, 2023, for AIP grants for airports located in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. This section extends authorization through December 31, 2023, for the FAA AIP supplementary discretionary funds for grants for airport or terminal development projects. This section extends through December 31, 2023, AIP grant authorization for compatible land use planning and projects by state and local governments. Airport-compatible land uses are those that can coexist with a nearby airport without constraining the safe and efficient operation of the airport, or exposing people living or working nearby to significant environmental impacts. This section extends through December 31, 2023, authorization for the AIP non-movement area surveillance surface display systems pilot grant program. These systems use on-airport sensors to track vehicles or aircraft that are equipped with transponders on portions of the airfield surface that are not under the control of air traffic control. This section extends through December 31, 2023, authorization for the FAA weather reporting programs. This section extends through January 1, 2024, a learning period (i.e., moratorium) that applies to certain DOT commercial spaceflight safety regulations governing the design or operation of a launch vehicle to protect the health and safety of crew, government astronauts, and space flight participants. This section extends through December 31, 2023, authority for DOT to enter into a reimbursable agreement with the Department of Interior for the purpose of funding airport development at Midway Island Airport. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the termination date for a final order establishing mileage and adjustment eligibility under the Essential Air Service Program using the most commonly used route between the place and the nearest medium hub airport or large hub airport. (DOT established the program to ensure that small communities that were served by certificated air carriers before the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 would continue to receive scheduled passenger service.) This section extends through December 31, 2023, the moratorium on discontinuing the FAA Contract Weather Observer Program at any airport. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for the FAA remote tower pilot program. A remote tower is a remotely operated air navigation facility, including all necessary system components, that provides the functions and capabilities of an air traffic control tower whereby air traffic services are provided to operators at an airport from a location that may not be on or near the airport. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for DOT to provide AIP grants for airport access roads in certain remote locations and for storage facilities for certain snow removal and safety equipment. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for the FAA's UAS remote detection and identification pilot program. Under the program, the FAA uses available remote detection or identification technologies for safety oversight, including enforcement actions against operators of UAS that are not in compliance with federal aviation laws and regulations. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for the Aviation Consumer Protection Advisory Committee, which advises DOT in carrying out activities relating to airline customer service improvements. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the requirement that the Aviation Consumer Advocate at DOT submit an annual report to Congress summarizing aviation consumer complaints and recommendations. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for the FAA Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee to address the needs of passengers with disabilities. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for an FAA pilot program to provide air traffic control services on a preferential basis to aircraft equipped with certain Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) avionics. This section extends through December 31, 2023, the pilot program that allows AIP funds to be used for activities related to the redevelopment of airport properties. (Sec. 2203) This section reauthorizes through December 31, 2023, FAA salaries, operations, and maintenance. Further, this section extends through December 31, 2023, DOT's authority to reduce the FAA's expenses for non-safety-related activities if DOT determines that the funding levels are insufficient to meet the FAA's authorized salary, operations and maintenance expenses. (Sec. 2204) This section extends through December 31, 2023, the FAA's authority to acquire, establish, and improve air navigation facilities and equipment. (Sec. 2205) This section extends through December 31, 2023, the FAA's authority to conduct civil aviation research, engineering, and development. (Sec. 2206) This section reauthorizes through December 31, 2023, the FAA Essential Air Service Program. Further, this section reauthorizes through December 31, 2023, the Small Community Air Service Development Program, a DOT grant program designed to help small communities address air service and airfare issues. Subtitle B--Aviation Revenue Provisions (Sec. 2211) This section extends through December 31, 2023, the FAA's authority for expenditures from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF). The AATF is the primary funding source for all major FAA accounts that fund federal aviation programs, with the remainder coming from general fund appropriations. (Sec. 2212) This section extends through December 31, 2023, the authority for the FAA to collect various taxes and fees to fund the AATF, including taxes on aviation fuel and airline tickets. Subtitle C--Expiring Counter-UAS 12 Authorities (Sec. 2221) This section extends through November 18, 2023, the authority of the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice to take certain actions to mitigate a credible threat to certain facilities or assets from an unmanned aircraft system (UAS). These include certain facilities that are located in the United States and identified as high-risk and a potential target for unlawful UAS activity. TITLE III--HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Subtitle A--Animal Drug and Animal Generic Drug User Fee Amendments This subtitle reauthorizes the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to collect fees for brand-name and generic animal drug applications through FY2028. Animal drugs are drugs that are intended for animals other than humans (e.g., pets and livestock). Animal drugs must be approved by the FDA before they may be offered on the commercial market. The FDA is authorized to collect fees for animal drug applications in order to support its regulatory activities; this authority currently expires at the end of FY2023. Chapter 1--Fees Relating to Animal Drugs Animal Drug User Fee Amendments of 2023 (Sec. 2302) This section updates statutory references to mutual agreements between the United States and the European Union regarding animal drug manufacturing to include specific mutual recognition agreements between the United States and the European Union and between the United States and the United Kingdom. (Sec. 2303) This section reauthorizes the FDA to collect fees for brand-name animal drug applications through FY2028 and makes related updates to fee calculations. (Sec. 2304) This section updates FDA reporting requirements to reflect the reauthorization. (Sec. 2305) This section provides that current law continues to apply with respect to fees for brand-name animal drug applications that were accepted by the FDA before October 1, 2023. (Sec. 2306) This section provides that the fee changes apply to brand-name animal drug applications that are received on or after October 1, 2023. (Sec. 2307) This section provides that the fee authorizations expire on October 1, 2028, and that related reporting requirements expire on January 31, 2029. Chapter 2--Fees Relating to Generic Animal Drugs Animal Generic Drug User Fee Amendments of 2023 (Sec. 2312) This section reauthorizes the FDA to collect fees for generic animal drug applications through FY2028 and makes related updates to fee calculations. It also provides for a specific fee for requests to establish generic investigational new animal drug files and requires other application fees to be adjusted accordingly. (Sec. 2313) This section updates FDA reporting requirements to reflect the reauthorization. (Sec. 2314) This section provides that current law continues to apply with respect to fees for generic animal drug applications that were accepted by the FDA before October 1, 2023. (Sec. 2315) This section provides that the fee changes apply to generic animal drug applications that are received on or after October 1, 2023. (Sec. 2316) This section provides that the fee authorizations expire on October 1, 2028, and that related reporting requirements expire on January 31, 2029. Subtitle B--Public Health Extenders (Sec. 2321) This section extends through November 17, 2023, funding for the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Program, the Community Health Center Fund, and the National Health Services Corps. (The program supports education and training of medical students in primary care residency programs in community-based ambulatory patient care centers. The fund supports (1) grants for outpatient health care facilities that serve medically underserved populations; and (2) the National Health Service Corps, which provides scholarships and student loan repayment awards to health care providers who agree to work in areas with health care provider shortages.) (Sec. 2322) This section extends funding through November 17, 2023, for the Special Diabetes Program for Type I Diabetes and the Special Diabetes Program for Indians. (The Special Diabetes Program for Type I Diabetes supports research on the prevention and cure of Type I diabetes, and the Special Diabetes Program for Indians supports diabetes treatment and prevention for tribal populations.) Subtitle C--Necessary Authorities to Respond to Threats (Sec. 2331) This section extends through November 17, 2023, the authority of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to directly appoint candidates to positions within the National Disaster Medical System if HHS determines the number of personnel in the system is insufficient to address a public health emergency or potential public health emergency. Currently, the authorization expires on September 30, 2023. The National Disaster Medical System is a partnership between HHS, the Department of Defense, and other federal departments that responds to public health and other emergencies, including by deploying medical response teams. (Sec. 2332) This section extends through November 17, 2023, the authority that allows states and tribes to request the temporary reassignment of state and local health department personnel who are funded through certain federal programs to immediately address a public health emergency. Currently, the authorization expires on September 30, 2023. (Sec. 2333) This section extends through November 17, 2023, the National Advisory Committee on Children and Disasters, the National Advisory Committee on Seniors and Disasters, and the National Advisory Committee on Individuals with Disabilities and Disasters. Currently, these committees terminate on September 30, 2023. Subtitle D--Medicaid (Sec. 2341) This section delays reductions to Medicaid disproportionate-share hospital (DSH) allotments until November 18, 2023. (DSHs are hospitals that receive additional payments under Medicaid for treating a large share of low-income patients.) (Sec. 2342) This section reduces the amount of funding available to the Medicaid Improvement Fund for activities relating to mechanized claims systems beginning in FY2028. Subtitle E--Human Services (Sec. 2351) This section funds through November 17, 2023, programs that support child welfare services and activities. Specifically, it funds the (1) Stephanie Tubbs Jones Child Welfare Service Program, which provides grants to states and Indian tribes to support preventive interventions and other activities to keep families together; and (2) the MaryLee Allen Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program, which supports efforts to prevent the unnecessary separation of children from their families, improve quality of care and services to children and their families, and ensure permanent living arrangements for children (e.g., parental reunification or adoption). (Sec. 2352) This section extends funding through November 17, 2023, for the Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Program. This program supports projects to implement sexual risk avoidance education that teaches participants to voluntarily refrain from nonmarital sexual activities. (Sec. 2353) This section extends funding through November 17, 2023, for the Personal Responsibility Education Program. This program provides grants to states to educate young people about abstinence and contraception for prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The program also supports pregnant and parenting youth. TITLE IV-- BUDGETARY EFFECTS (Sec. 2401) This section exempts the budgetary effects of this division from (1) the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 (PAYGO Act), (2) the Senate PAYGO rule, and (3) certain budget scorekeeping rules.

Land-Grant Research Equity and Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2023

Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2023

Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act of 2023 This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 and revises the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP). This Department of Agriculture program provides loans to eligible microenterprise development organizations to capitalize revolving loan funds that provide loans to qualified rural microenterprises.  The bill increases the amount a rural microenterprise may borrow to up to $75,000 (from up to $50,000). The bill also increases the maximum allowable federal cost share to 100% (from 75%). The bill further specifies that a RMAP project loan may not be used to cover more than 50% of any demolition, construction, or related costs of real estate improvements.

Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act This bill establishes a joint task force to identify and address trade barriers to U.S. agricultural exports. Specifically, the bill directs the President to establish the Agricultural Trade Enforcement Task Force. Members of this task force include employees of the Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The bill requires the task force to (1) identify trade barriers to U.S. agricultural exports that are vulnerable to dispute settlement under the World Trade Organization (WTO) or other trade agreements, (2) develop and implement a strategy for enforcing violations of trade agreements related to those trade barriers, (3) identify like-minded trading partners for specific trade barriers that could act as complainants on disputes that are systemically or economically important to the United States, and (4) submit periodic reports to Congress. In its initial report, the task force must include a plan for filing a request under the WTO dispute settlement process for consultations to address India's minimum price supports.

America’s Revegetation and Carbon Sequestration Act of 2024

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

America’s Revegetation and Carbon Sequestration Act of 2024 This bill requires various actions to address revegetation and promote the use of forest products. Among other provisions, the bill requires the Forest Service to continue its experimental forests and ranges network. The bill requires the Department of Labor to develop a career and technical education and training program focused on tree planting and revegetation, tree maintenance, nursery management, or seed collection as part of the Job Corps program. The Department of the Interior must establish a pilot program to establish native trees, shrubs, or grasses on mined land.  The bill authorizes the Forest Service to expend funds received from a nonfederal entity as a carbon credit to conduct forest revegetation activity that reduces greenhouse gases. Interior and the Forest Service must jointly develop and implement an action plan to map, treat, and control invasive grasses. The Department of Agriculture (USDA), in coordination with the Department of Energy, must expand research relating to the use of wood for various purposes, including renewable fuel and mass timber. The bill establishes an Office of Technology Transfer in the Forest Service. USDA must establish an innovation voucher pilot program to accelerate product development, demonstration, and commercialization in the forest products sector. The Forest Products Laboratory of the Forest Service must establish a mass timber science and education program. The bill designates, upon acquisition by the United States, approximately 2,693 acres of land within the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia as the Patsye Crites Forest.

Land-Grant Research Equity and Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

India Shrimp Tariff Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

India Shrimp Tariff Act This bill addresses shrimp imports from India, including by phasing in an increased rate of duty for shrimp and prawns originating from India. Specifically, the bill requires the general rate of duty for shrimp and prawns originating from India to be (1) 10% for 2024, (2) 20% for 2025, and (2) 40% for 2026 and after. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative must take the necessary steps to modify the Schedule of Concessions to accommodate the increase in the rate of duty applicable under this bill. (Each World Trade Organization member country has its own Schedule of Concessions on goods. These schedules are legal instruments that describe the treatment a member country must provide to the trade of other members.) Additionally, the bill eliminates the exemption of cooked shrimp and crawfish (both cooked whole and in sections) from country-of-origin labeling (COOL) requirements. (COOL is a labeling law that requires retailers, such as full-line grocery stores, supermarkets, and club warehouse stores, to notify their customers of information regarding the source of certain foods.) Further, the Department of Agriculture must modify its regulations to ensure that these cooked products are not considered processed food items.

Ag Disputes Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act or the Ag Disputes Act This bill establishes a joint task force to identify and address trade barriers to U.S. agricultural exports. Specifically, the bill directs the President to establish the Agricultural Trade Enforcement Task Force. Members of this task force include employees of the Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The bill requires the task force to (1) identify trade barriers to U.S. agricultural exports that are vulnerable to dispute settlement under the World Trade Organization (WTO) or other trade agreements to which the United States is a party, (2) develop and implement a strategy for enforcing violations of trade agreements related to those trade barriers, (3) identify like-minded trading partners that could act as complainants on disputes relating to specific trade barriers that are systemically or economically important to the United States, and (4) submit periodic reports to Congress. In its first report, the task force must include a plan for filing a request for consultations under the WTO with respect to agricultural price supports implemented by the Indian government.

Agricultural Biorefinery Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

A resolution expressing support for the diplomatic relations required to encourage the Government of Mexico to fulfill water deliveries on an annual basis to the United States under the Treaty between the United States of America and Mexico respecting the utilization of waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2023

This resolution expresses support for the diplomatic and official relations required to secure the government of Mexico's compliance with a 1944 treaty concerning water utilization between the United States and Mexico. The resolution also (1) expresses deep concern that farmers in south Texas are experiencing water shortages, and (2) encourages the government of Mexico to fulfill a commitment to deliver annually at least 350,000 acre-feet of water to the United States.

FOREIGN OWNERSHIP IN U.S. AGRICULTURE

United States · United States Senate · 27 September 2023

To establish as a permanent program the organic market development grant program of the Department of Agriculture.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

This bill provides statutory authority for the Organic Market Development Grant (OMDG) Program within the Agricultural Marketing Service. The bill also provides specified funds for the program for FY2024 and each fiscal year thereafter.  The OMDG Program supports the development of new and expanded organic markets. Eligible applicants include business entities that produce or handle organic products; nonprofit organizations; trade associations; and tribal, state, territorial, and local government entities. Grant funds may be used to carry out projects that are for (1) market development and promotion of certified organic products; (2) certified organic product storage (including cold storage), aggregation, processing, and distribution capacity expansion; and (3) equipment-only.     

Crop Insurance Transparency Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

Crop Insurance Transparency Act This bill requires the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to publicly disclose specific information about farmers and insurance providers participating in the federal crop insurance program (FCIP). (The FCIP helps make insurance coverage available to farmers from private sector insurers to help mitigate potential financial consequences of adverse growing and market conditions.) Specifically, USDA must annually disclose information on an individual or entity that obtained a federally subsidized crop insurance, livestock, or forage policy or plan of insurance, including their name, the amount of the premium subsidy received, and the federal portion of indemnities paid toward insured losses. USDA must also annually disclose information on each private insurance provider participating in the FCIP, including their name, the underwriting gains earned by the provider through participation in the program, the amount paid to cover administrative and operating expenses, and the federal portion of indemnities and reinsurance costs. The bill excludes from the disclosure requirements information that is related to individuals and entities covered by a catastrophic risk protection plan. (These plans are the minimum level of coverage offered under the program.)  

Support Water-Efficient Strategies and Technologies Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

Recognizing the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

This concurrent resolution recognizes the 10th anniversary of the Rice Stewardship Partnership and the contributions of Ducks Unlimited and USA Rice to environmental stewardship.

WIC for Kids Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

A resolution supporting the designation of September 21, 2023, as "National Teach Ag Day" and celebrating 75 years of the National Association of Agricultural Educators.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

This resolution supports the designation of September 21, 2023, as National Teach Ag Day and recognizes the important role of agricultural education and the National FFA Organization in developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Butcher Block Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

Butcher Block Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide loans, loan guarantees, and grants to assist and expand meat processing and rendering.  USDA must establish a loan and loan guarantee program for individuals and entities for the construction, expansion, modification, refurbishment, or re-equipping of meat processing facilities (with less than 500 employees) and rendering facilities (with less than 200 employees).  Those eligible for the program include (1) public, private, or cooperative organizations; (2) Indian tribes; and (3) individual farmers, ranchers, or business owners. The bill generally prohibits the amount of a loan or loan guarantee from exceeding $50 million. However, USDA may provide a loan or loan guarantee of up to $100 million to public, private, or cooperative organizations for projects that significantly increase meat processing or rendering in a state or region that has insufficient processing or rendering capacity. USDA must also make grants to establish or support new, innovative, or expanded meat processing or rendering activities, or other activities that will increase the customer base or revenue returns of livestock and poultry producers. Projects may include identifying and analyzing business opportunities, providing technical assistance and training, and incentivizing innovative or mobile enterprises.  Those eligible for the grants are (1) governmental entities; (2) public, private, or cooperative organizations; (3) Indian tribes; and (4) institutions of higher education.  

A bill to establish as a permanent program the organic market development grant program of the Department of Agriculture.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

This bill provides statutory authority for the Organic Market Development Grant (OMDG) Program within the Agricultural Marketing Service. The bill also provides specified funds for the program for FY2024 and each fiscal year thereafter.  The OMDG Program supports the development of new and expanded organic markets. Eligible applicants include business entities that produce or handle organic products; nonprofit organizations; trade associations; and tribal, state, territorial, and local government entities. Grant funds may be used to carry out projects that are for (1) market development and promotion of certified organic products; (2) certified organic product storage (including cold storage), aggregation, processing, and distribution capacity expansion; and (3) equipment-only.

Addressing Digestive Distress in Stomachs of Our Youth Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2023

Addressing Digestive Distress in Stomachs of Our Youth Act or the ADD SOY Act This bill requires schools to substitute a nondairy beverage for fluid milk in the National School Lunch Program upon the request of a student or their parent or guardian. Under current law, schools participating in the program may provide a substitute at the request of a medical authority or the student's parent or guardian. The bill also removes current requirements that (1) the substitute request be based on an identified medical or other special dietary need that restricts the student's diet, and (2) the school food authority pay for any additional expenses resulting from providing the substitute that exceed the covered reimbursement amounts.

No Photo for Food Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

No Photo for Food Act of 2023 This bill revises provisions related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to prohibit a state from requiring a photograph of any household member on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Under current law, a state may require that an EBT card contain a photo of one or more members of a SNAP household. As background, SNAP provides federally funded benefits (not the same as cash) on EBT cards to eligible households to purchase eligible food items from authorized retailers.

Assisting Family Farmers through Insurance Reform Measures Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Food and Nutrition Service relating to "Application of Bostock v. Clayton County to Program Discrimination Complaint Processing-Policy Update".

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

This joint resolution nullifies the policy update issued by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) on May 5, 2022, related to discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) deemed the policy update a rule on June 5, 2023, and therefore subject to the Congressional Review Act (CRA) requirement that a rule must be submitted to Congress and the GAO before it can take effect. The CRA also permits Congress to review and disapprove rules using specified procedures. In June 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court held in Bostock v. Clayton County that, under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the prohibition on sex discrimination in employment includes discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The FNS determined that the Bostock analysis also applies to certain FNS-enforced requirements under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 because the requirements are sufficiently similar to those in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The FNS rule concludes that the prohibitions against sex discrimination in the FNS-enforced statutes prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. The rule also directs state agencies and program operators to handle complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation as complaints of prohibited sex discrimination.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4365) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4367) making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4665) making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4368) making appropriations for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4365) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4367) making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4665) making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4368) making appropriations for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024.

Drought Assistance Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

Drought Assistance Improvement Act This bill modifies access to two Farm Service Agency (FSA) administered programs: the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) and the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP). The bill modifies the LFP to allow for one monthly payment when a county has four consecutive weeks of a D2 rating (severe drought) and two payments for eight consecutive weeks of D2. Currently, one payment is available for eight consecutive weeks of D2. (LFP makes payments to eligible livestock producers who have suffered grazing losses on drought-affected pastureland, including cropland planted specifically for grazing.) The bill also expands coverage under ELAP for losses caused by adverse weather or drought. The bill includes under ELAP the loss of a crawfish harvest due to adverse weather or drought. (ELAP provides payments to producers of livestock, honey bees, and farm-raised fish as compensation for losses due to disease, adverse weather, feed or water shortages, or other conditions that are not covered under other programs.) The FSA must establish ELAP documentation standards for (1) collecting data, (2) the production of crawfish, and (3) defining loss conditions due to drought.   

Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act This bill requires states to recoup any overpayments of benefits made to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients and adjusts the formula for determining a state's liability rate for overpayments. As background, the SNAP quality control system measures how accurately SNAP state agencies determine a household’s eligibility and benefit amount and determines overpayments of benefits and underpayments. States that have comparatively high payment error rates for two consecutive years are assessed a penalty (i.e., liability amount). The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) must use a statutory formula to determine the liability amount. Under current law, FNS must set a tolerance level for excluding small payment errors (e.g., $54 or less in FY2023). This bill reduces the tolerance level for excluding small errors to $0 for FY2024 and each succeeding fiscal year. The bill also requires state agencies to recoup any overpayments of benefits made to SNAP beneficiaries. The bill adjusts the liability rate formula to reduce the state payment error rate based on the percentage of overpayments recouped by the state. Further, the bill increases the multiplier used in the formula to 25% (from 10%). 

Protecting Future Farmland Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2023

Responsible Legislating Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2023

Responsible Legislating Act This bill establishes or modifies various federal programs, including programs to increase participation in tax-exempt retirement plans, assist members of the Armed Forces, and increase penalties for human trafficking. Among other provisions, the bill extends through FY2024 livestock mandatory reporting requirements under the Livestock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999; provides for apprenticeship training for members of the Armed Forces; makes various changes to tax-exempt pension plan provisions, including expanding automatic enrollment, increasing the tax credit for retirement savings contributions, and increasing the age for mandatory minimum distributions; establishes a Boots to Business Program to assist current and former members of the Armed Forces, including members of the National Guard and Reserves, interested in business ownership; increases criminal penalties for human trafficking and coercion and enticement in school zones; establishes the Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture; requires a report on increasing foreign direct investment in semiconductor-related manufacturing and production; and directs the Federal Maritime Commission, through a federally-funded research and development center, to evaluate the effect of foreign ownership of marine terminals at the 15 largest U.S. container ports on U.S. economic security. The bill appropriates funds in FY2024 for programs or divisions of the Departments of Health and Human Services, Agriculture, State, Defense, Homeland Security, and Energy.

2023 WHIP+ Reauthorization Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

SNP Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Streamlining Nutrition Paperwork Act of 2023 or the SNP Act of 2023 This bill allows state agencies to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications by video phone or a simplified telephonic system.  Specifically, a state agency may establish a system to allow applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing (referred to as hearing-impaired under the bill) to sign a submitted SNAP application by gesture over a video phone. (Currently, a state agency may allow for a telephonic signature through a recorded verbal assent.) The bill also specifies that, for a video phone or telephonic signature, the current recording system requirement may be satisfied through an audio recording or in writing. (During 2020 and 2021, the Food and Nutrition Service provided waivers to certain state agencies which allowed the state agency to document in writing that an applicant verbally signed the application, instead of requiring an audio recording.)

Youth Lead Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Youth Lead Act This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 National Institute of Food and Agriculture grants to the Girl Scouts of the USA, the Boy Scouts of America, the National 4–H Council, and the National FFA Organization. These grants must be used to establish pilot projects to expand the programs carried out by the organizations in rural areas and small towns.

NO TIME TO Waste Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

New Opportunities for Technological Innovation, Mitigation, and Education To Overcome Waste Act or the NO TIME TO Waste Act This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to take several actions to reduce U.S. food loss and waste (FLW). Under the bill, food loss means the food that does not reach a consumer as a result of an issue in the production, storage, processing, or distribution phase. Food waste means that food intended for human consumption is unconsumed for any reason at the retail or consumption phase. The bill requires USDA to collaborate with the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out a December, 17, 2020, agreement to coordinate federal efforts to cut FLW. Further, USDA must establish an Office of Food Loss and Waste to support the existing role of the Food Loss and Waste Liaison. The office must also, among other things, establish a grant program to support collecting data on existing state and local FLW policies (and the office must use the data to establish model policies for state and local governments); a block grant program for states and Indian tribes to develop and support food recovery infrastructure and innovative food distribution models; and a grant program to incentivize state, municipal, local, and tribal governments to establish public-private partnerships that commit to reducing FLW by 50% by 2030. The Office of Food Loss and Waste must also initiate a national FLW education and public awareness campaign.

Producer and Agricultural Credit Enhancement Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Recognizing September 21, 2023, as National Teach Ag Day and celebrating 75 years of the National Association of Agricultural Educators.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

This resolution supports the designation of National Teach Ag Day and recognizes the important role of agricultural education and the National FFA Organization in developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Feed Our Families Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Feed Our Families Act of 2023 This bill provides appropriations for carrying out the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 during the first 90-day period of a lapse in discretionary appropriations for carrying out the act during any fiscal year beginning after FY2023. The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 is the authorizing statute for several Department of Agriculture nutrition and food assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Supporting Farmworker Mental Health Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Supporting Farmworker Mental Health Act This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 and modifies the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) Program. (The FRSAN Program funds projects that aim to maintain a network connecting individuals engaged in farming, ranching, and other agriculture-related occupations to stress assistance programs.) Specifically, the bill makes individuals engaged in farm work eligible for assistance under the FRSAN Program. The bill also expands the types of programs eligible for FRSAN grants to include those that deliver peer-to-peer mental health support to individuals who are engaged in farming, ranching, farm work, and other agriculture-related occupations. 

Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Supporting Farmworkers' Mental Health Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Supporting Farmworkers' Mental Health Act This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 and modifies the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) Program. (The FRSAN Program funds projects that aim to maintain a network connecting individuals engaged in farming, ranching, and other agriculture-related occupations to stress assistance programs.) Specifically, the bill makes individuals engaged in farm work eligible for assistance under the FRSAN Program. The bill also expands the types of programs eligible for FRSAN grants to include those that deliver peer-to-peer mental health support to individuals who are engaged in farming, ranching, farm work, and other agriculture-related occupations. 

SNP Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Streamlining Nutrition Paperwork Act of 2023 or the SNP Act of 2023 This bill allows state agencies to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications by video phone or a simplified telephonic system.  Specifically, a state agency may establish a system to allow applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing (referred to as hearing-impaired under the bill) to sign a submitted SNAP application by gesture over a video phone. (Currently, a state agency may allow for a telephonic signature through a recorded verbal assent.) The bill also specifies that, for a video phone or telephonic signature, the current recording system requirement may be satisfied through an audio recording or in writing. (During 2020 and 2021, the Food and Nutrition Service provided waivers to certain state agencies which allowed the state agency to document in writing that an applicant verbally signed the application, instead of requiring an audio recording.)

School Lunch Debt Cancellation Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

School Lunch Debt Cancellation Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to cancel and eliminate all household school meal debts (as of the date of the bill's enactment) under the school breakfast and lunch programs. USDA must also pay the amount of the cancelled debt to each local educational authority using Commodity Credit Corporation funds.

SNAP Tribal Food Sovereignty Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

SNAP Tribal Food Sovereignty Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture to enter into self-determination contracts upon the request of Indian tribes and tribal organizations to carry out the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

NO TIME TO Waste Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

New Opportunities for Technological Innovation, Mitigation, and Education To Overcome Waste Act or the NO TIME TO Waste Act This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to take several actions to reduce U.S. food loss and waste (FLW). Under the bill, food loss means the food that does not reach a consumer as a result of an issue in the production, storage, processing, or distribution phase. Food waste means that food intended for human consumption is unconsumed for any reason at the retail or consumption phase. The bill requires USDA to collaborate with the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out a December, 17, 2020, agreement to coordinate federal efforts to cut FLW. Further, USDA must establish an Office of Food Loss and Waste to support the existing role of the Food Loss and Waste Liaison. The office must also, among other things, establish a grant program to support collecting data on existing state and local FLW policies (and the office must use the data to establish model policies for state and local governments); a block grant program for states and Indian tribes to develop and support food recovery infrastructure and innovative food distribution models; and a grant program to incentivize state, municipal, local, and tribal governments to establish public-private partnerships that commit to reducing FLW by 50% by 2030. The Office of Food Loss and Waste must also initiate a national FLW education and public awareness campaign.  

A bill to delay the implementation of a rule relating to the importation of sheep and goats and products derived from sheep and goats, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

This bill requires the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to submit a report on the potential costs and benefits of its proposed rule governing the importation of live sheep, goats, other ruminants, and products derived from sheep and goats. It also bars USDA from finalizing, implementing, administering, or enforcing the rule until one year after the date that USDA submits the report.

Parity for Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Students in Agriculture Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Parity for Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Students in Agriculture Act This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 competitive education grants to Alaska Native-serving institutions of higher education (IHEs) and Native Hawaiian-serving IHEs. Additionally, the bill extends the grant period to three years.