Agriculture

Producer and Agricultural Credit Enhancement Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2023

Agricultural Right to Repair Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2023

Climate-Friendly Food Label Task Force Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2023

Climate-Friendly Food Label Task Force Act This bill establishes an advisory panel to study and submit a report to the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Congress on the development of a climate-friendly certification for agricultural products. The USDA-appointed advisory panel must include representatives who are scientists (including experts on climate science and nutrition science) and representatives from environmental advocacy organizations, industry, and federal agencies. USDA may not issue any related regulations or guidance (or otherwise certify or advertise any agricultural product as climate-friendly) before the report is submitted to Congress. 

Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2023

Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act of 2023 This bill directs the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) to establish a fresh produce program that serves individuals at risk of food and nutrition insecurity. Specifically, the AMS must enter into contracts with growers, distributors, food hubs, and others to procure U.S.- grown fresh produce (excluding legumes) for distribution to organizations that serve individuals at risk (e.g., nonprofit food banks and pantries, schools, child or senior care centers, and community-based organizations). Under the AMS contracts, the produce must meet specific requirements. For example, the produce must be grown in the United States, include locally grown produce, and include at least seven varieties of fresh produce that are distributed.  The AMS must prioritize contracts with eligible growers, distributors, food hubs, and others that are (or source produce from) beginning farmers; small or mid-sized farms that are structured as family farms; or socially disadvantaged farmers, including women-owned and veteran-owned eligible entities. As part of the program, the AMS must provide (1) information to assist small farmers, beginning farmers, veteran farmers, and socially disadvantaged farmers in obtaining food safety certifications; (2) financial assistance for changes and upgrades to improve food safety; and (3) technical assistance to eligible fresh produce growers, distributors, food hubs, and others.  In addition, the Government Accountability Office must submit a report to Congress that evaluates the effectiveness of the program with respect to, among other things, increasing low-income households' access to a wide variety of fresh produce and increasing the federal government's procurement of fresh produce.  

Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2023

Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act of 2023 This bill directs the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) to establish a fresh produce program that serves individuals at risk of food and nutrition insecurity. Specifically, the AMS must enter into contracts with growers, distributors, food hubs, and others to procure U.S.- grown fresh produce (excluding legumes) for distribution to organizations that serve individuals at risk (e.g., nonprofit food banks and pantries, schools, child or senior care centers, and community-based organizations). Under the AMS contracts, the produce must meet specific requirements. For example, the produce must be grown in the United States, include locally grown produce, and include at least seven varieties of fresh produce that are distributed.  The AMS must prioritize contracts with eligible growers, distributors, food hubs, and others that are (or source produce from) beginning farmers; small or mid-sized farms that are structured as family farms; or socially disadvantaged farmers, including women-owned and veteran-owned eligible entities. As part of the program, the AMS must provide (1) information to assist small farmers, beginning farmers, veteran farmers, and socially disadvantaged farmers in obtaining food safety certifications; (2) financial assistance for changes and upgrades to improve food safety; and (3) technical assistance to eligible fresh produce growers, distributors, food hubs, and others.  In addition, the Government Accountability Office must submit a report to Congress that evaluates the effectiveness of the program with respect to, among other things, increasing low-income households' access to a wide variety of fresh produce and increasing the federal government's procurement of fresh produce.  

American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2023

American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 This bill imposes limits and requirements on international food assistance provided under Title II of the Food for Peace Act and makes other changes to the assistance program. First, the bill eliminates the use of food procured outside of the United States, food vouchers, or cash transfers as food as assistance under the program. Second, the bill restricts the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) from using more than 50% of its annual appropriations for program expenses other than the procurement of agricultural commodities and ocean transportation. Additionally, the bill limits the amount that USAID may provide to qualified organizations to be used for purposes such as administration, personnel, and program evaluation. Under current law, USAID must spend a minimum of 7.5% and a maximum of 20% of its annual appropriations for these purposes. The bill reduces the minimum to 5% and the maximum to 10%. The bill also cancels the Local and Regional Procurement assistance program, which funds field-based (i.e., outside the United States) agricultural projects. The bill also modifies some of the respective powers of USAID and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). For example, the bill transfers from USAID to USDA the authority to approve drawing emergency food aid from the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust. The bill also renames the assistance program as the Peter O'Brien Food for Peace Program.    

LEGISLATIVE HEARING ON H.R. 1657, TO PROVIDE FOR A LAND EXCHANGE IN THE CHIPPEWA NATIONAL FOREST, MINNESOTA, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, "LAKE WINNIBIGOSHISH LAND EXCHANGE ACT OF 2023"; H.R. 3107, TO DIRECT THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR TO ESTABLISH THE FEDERAL INTERAGENCY COUNCIL ON OUTDOOR RECREATION, "IMPROVING OUTDOOR RECREATION COORDINATION ACT"; H.R. 3200, TO REQUIRE THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE AND THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR TO CARRY OUT CERTAIN ACTIVITIES TO ENHANCE RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR GATEWAY COMMUNITIES, TO AMEND THE FEDERAL LANDS RECREATION ENHANCEMENT ACT TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A DIGITAL NATIONAL PARKS AND FEDERAL RECREATIONAL LANDS PASS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, "GATEWAY COMMUNITY AND RECREATION ENHANCEMENT ACT; AND H.R. 4984,TO AMEND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA STADIUM ACT OF 1957 TO PROVIDE FOR THE TRANSFER OF ADMINISTRATIVE JURISDICTION OVER THE ROBERT F. KENNEDY MEMORIAL STADIUM CAMPUS TO THE ADMINISTRATOR OF GENERAL SERVICES AND THE LEASING OF THE CAMPUS TO THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA FOR PURPOSES WHICH INCLUDE COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, "D.C. ROBERT F. KENNEDY MEMORIAL STADIUM CAMPUS REVITALIZATION ACT"

United States · United States House of Representatives · 19 September 2023

Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2023

Continuing Appropriations and Border Security Enhancement Act, 2024

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2023

Continuing Appropriations and Border Security Enhancement Act, 2024 This bill provides continuing FY2024 appropriations for federal agencies through October 31, 2023. It also makes various changes to immigration law, including by imposing limits on asylum eligibility. DIVISION A--CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024 Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 This division provides continuing FY2024 appropriations to federal agencies through the earlier of October 31, 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 generally funds defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and disaster relief programs at the FY2023 levels and reduces funding for other programs by 8.1%. It also includes several exceptions that provide funding flexibility and additional appropriations for various programs. The division extends the National Flood Insurance Program and the Department of Agriculture's Livestock Mandatory Reporting program through October 31, 2023. The division also includes several provisions that prohibit the Department of Homeland Security from using the funds provided by the CR for various purposes related to immigration. DIVISION B--OTHER MATTERS This division exempts the budgetary effects of this division and each succeeding 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. DIVISION C--BORDER SECURITY This division requires certain actions related to border security. (Sec. 102) This section requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to resume all activities related to constructing a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border that were underway or planned prior to January 20, 2021. (Sec. 103) This section imposes additional requirements on DHS related to the construction of barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. For example, the bill requires DHS to construct a border wall (including related infrastructure and technology) along at least 900 miles of that border, whereas currently DHS is required to have at least 700 miles of reinforced fencing along that border. This section also requires DHS to waive all legal requirements necessary to ensure the expeditious construction of the border barriers, whereas currently DHS is authorized to waive such requirements. (Sec. 104) This section requires U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to submit a strategic five-year technology investment plan to Congress. (Sec. 105) This section imposes certain documentation and acquisition-related standards on major border security technology acquisitions, generally those that cost at least $100 million based on FY2023 constant dollars. (Sec. 106) This section requires CBP to (1) ensure that each CBP officer or agent is equipped with a two-way communication device, (2) fully implement the Border Security Deployment Program (a border surveillance program), and (3) upgrade license plate readers as needed at ports of entry along the northern and southern borders. (Sec. 107) This section authorizes retention bonuses for eligible frontline U.S. Border Patrol law enforcement agents. The section also requires CBP to maintain an active duty presence of at least 22,000 full-time equivalent Border Patrol agents by September 30, 2025. (Sec. 108) This section modifies a provision that exempts certain applicants for CBP law enforcement positions from having to take a polygraph test. For example, this section provides this exemption to certain law enforcement officers, whereas currently the waiver is only available to eligible veterans. The waiver provision established by this section is not applicable during periods when CBP certifies that it has met certain staffing requirements. (Sec. 109) This section requires CBP to implement a workload staffing model for the Border Patrol and CBP Air and Marine Operations. (Sec. 110) This section provides statutory authorization for Operation Stonegarden, a program which provides grants to law enforcement agencies that are (1) in a state with an international land or maritime border, and (2) involved in an active CBP operation coordinated through the Border Patrol. (Sec. 111) This section establishes certain requirements for CBP Air and Marine Operations. For example, CBP must ensure that its Air and Marine Operations (1) carry out at least 110,000 flight hours each year, and (2) operate unmanned aircraft systems (drones) on the southern border 24 hours a day. (Sec. 112) This section requires DHS to hire contractors to begin eradicating certain plant growth along the Rio Grande River that impedes border security operations. (Sec. 113) This section requires the Border Patrol to issue a Border Patrol Strategic Plan to enhance border security. (Sec. 115) This section prohibits DHS from (1) processing the entry of non-U.S. nationals ( aliens under federal law) arriving in between ports of entry; (2) providing funds to nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that facilitate or encourage unlawful activity; or (3) providing funds to NGOs that provide certain services, such as lodging or immigration legal services, to inadmissible non-U.S. nationals who enter the United States. (Sec. 116) This section requires DHS to ensure that CBP is, within 14 days of this bill's enactment, fully compliant with federal DNA and biometric collection requirements at U.S. land borders. (Sec. 117) This section requires CBP to periodically review and update, as necessary, manuals and policies related to inspections at ports of entry to ensure the uniformity of inspection practices to effectively detect illegal activity along the border, such as the smuggling of drugs and humans. (Sec. 118) This section requires CBP to publish information monthly about CBP encounters with non-U.S. nationals, including the total number of encounters and the nationalities of the individuals encountered. (Sec. 119) This section requires CBP to, within seven days of this bill's enactment, certify to Congress that CBP has real-time access to the criminal history databases of all countries of origin and transit for non-U.S. nationals encountered by CBP. (Sec. 120) This section prohibits the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) from accepting as proof of identification certain documents, such as a warrant issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or an employment authorization issued by DHS. The TSA must collect the biometric information of any individual who (1) seeks to enter the aircraft boarding area of an airport where access is controlled by the TSA, (2) does not present an accepted identification document, and (3) the TSA cannot verify is a U.S. national. The TSA must share this collected biometric information with the Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT). (Sec. 121) This section prohibits DHS from (1) issuing any COVID-19 vaccine mandate unless expressly authorized by Congress, or (2) taking any adverse action against an employee based solely on the employee's refusal to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. (Sec. 122) This section limits the use of the CBP One mobile application or a similar program. Specifically, DHS may only use such an application for inspecting perishable cargo. (Sec. 124) This section requires the Government Accountability Office to study and report to Congress on the costs incurred by states in support of the federal mission to secure the southwest border and the feasibility of reimbursing states for such costs. (Sec. 125) This section requires the Office of Inspector General of DHS to annually report to Congress on the economic and security impact of mass migration to municipalities and states along the southwest border. (Sec. 126) This section specifies that no funds are authorized to be appropriated for specified DHS activities, including a pilot program for alternatives to detention or purchasing electric vehicles. (Sec. 128) This section requires the Office of Inspector General of DHS to report to Congress an assessment of CBP's ability to mitigate unmanned aircraft systems along the southwest border. DIVISION D--IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS TITLE I--ASYLUM REFORM AND BORDER PROTECTION This title imposes additional requirements for asylum eligibility. (Sec. 101) This section expands provisions that bar certain individuals from applying for asylum. Currently, an individual may not apply for asylum if that individual may be removed to a third country (i.e., a country that is not the applicant's country of nationality or last habitual residence) if that third country has (1) a full and fair asylum process that the individual could use, and (2) an agreement with the United States allowing for such removals. This section expands this provision by authorizing removal to third countries that do not have an agreement with the United States. This section also bars an individual from applying for asylum if the individual traveled through at least one third country before arriving in the United States, with certain exceptions (e.g., the individual applied for and was denied asylum in that third country). (Sec. 102) This section modifies the standard for establishing an asylum applicant's credible fear of persecution. Specifically, to find credible fear, an asylum officer must find that the applicant could more likely than not establish eligibility for asylum. Currently, an asylum officer must conclude that there is a significant possibility that the applicant could establish eligibility for asylum. (Sec. 103) This section limits asylum eligibility to individuals who arrived in the United States at a port of entry. (Sec. 104) This section expands the types of crimes that may make an individual ineligible for asylum, such as a conviction for (1) a misdemeanor relating to the unlawful possession or use of an identification, (2) an offense for driving while intoxicated causing another person's serious bodily injury or death, or (3) any felony. This section further expands this bar to asylum eligibility by broadening the definition of felony to include any crime that is punishable by more than one year of imprisonment. (Some states have misdemeanors that are punishable by imprisonment of more than a year.) Currently, a felony is generally not a bar against asylum eligibility, though certain felonies, such as one for a particularly serious crime, would bar an individual if the individual constitutes a danger to the community. (Sec. 105) This section establishes a duration of six months for an employment authorization for an applicant for asylum. Such an employment authorization may also be renewed for six months or terminated under specified conditions. (Sec. 106) This section requires DHS to charge a fee for each asylum application, except for one filed by an unaccompanied alien child. Currently, DHS is authorized but not required to charge such fees. The section also authorizes DHS to charge fees for a refugee's application for employment authorization or for lawful permanent resident status. (Sec. 107) This section increases the requirements for qualifying as a refugee. Generally, a refugee must have a well-founded fear of persecution based on certain characteristics, such as the individual's race, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. The section establishes additional requirements for meeting these criteria. For example, such persecution may not be based solely on (1) infrequently enforced laws or government policies unless there is credible evidence that the law or policy would be personally applied to the individual, or (2) conduct of rogue government officials acting outside their official capacity. Furthermore, to be a member of a particular social group, the asylum applicant must establish that the group exists independently of the alleged acts of persecution (i.e., the group cannot be defined solely as the victims of the alleged persecution). The section also imposes limits on when DHS or DOJ may exercise discretion in favor of an asylum applicant. For example, favorable discretion may not be exercised, with certain exceptions, for an applicant who (1) has been unlawfully present in the United States for more than one year before applying for asylum; or (2) failed to file federal, state, or local tax returns. (Sec. 108) This section establishes certain situations when an asylum applicant must be considered to have firmly resettled in another country. (Generally, an individual who has firmly resettled in a country that is not their country of nationality is not eligible for asylum.) For example, an individual must be considered to have firmly resettled in another country if, after the events giving rise to the asylum claim, the individual resided in a country where the individual was eligible for any permanent or indefinitely renewable legal immigration status, such as refugee status. (Sec. 109) This section establishes a statutory definition of what constitutes a frivolous asylum application, whereas currently this definition is defined in regulations. Under this bill, an application is frivolous if (1) it is so insufficient in substance that it is clear that it was filed to achieve another objective, such as to delay removal; or (2) any material elements are knowingly fabricated. (Sec. 111) This section requires DOJ to establish procedures to expedite the adjudication of asylum applications from individuals who are (1) subject to formal removal proceedings; and (2) nationals of a Western Hemisphere country subject to sanctions related to Cuba, Nicaragua, or Venezuela. TITLE II--BORDER SAFETY AND MIGRANT PROTECTION (Sec. 201) This section expands the category of non-U.S. nationals who are subject to expedited removal (i.e., removal without further hearing or review) and addresses related issues. Specifically, this section requires expedited removal for individuals who are unlawfully present or who unlawfully entered the United States. (Currently, DHS may, but is not required to, apply expedited removal to unlawfully present individuals who have been physically present in the United States for less than two years.) This section also requires, with certain exceptions, detention for individuals who (1) are subject to expedited removal, (2) are subject to expedited removal and have expressed an intention to apply for asylum, or (3) have established a credible fear of persecution and are awaiting consideration of an asylum application. If DHS cannot comply with this detention requirement or remove an individual to a safe third country, DHS must return the individual to the neighboring country that the individual traveled through to reach the United States while the individual's case is pending. A state may sue DHS to enforce the requirements imposed by this section. This section also authorizes DHS to suspend the introduction of certain non-U.S. nationals at an international border if DHS determines that the suspension is necessary to achieve operational control of that border. (Sec. 202) This section requires DHS to take all actions necessary to reopen or restore all ICE detention facilities that were in operation on January 20, 2021. TITLE III--PREVENTING UNCONTROLLED MIGRATION FLOWS IN THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE (Sec. 302) This section requires the Department of State to seek to negotiate agreements with Western Hemisphere countries on cooperation and burden sharing on issues related to asylum seekers and immigration. (Sec. 303) This section requires the State Department to periodically brief Congress on the process of its negotiations pursuant to the previous section of this bill. TITLE IV--ENSURING UNITED FAMILIES AT THE BORDER (Sec. 401) This section statutorily establishes that there is no presumption that an alien child (other than an unaccompanied child) should not be detained for immigration purposes. Specifically, the section states that the detention of such minors shall be governed by specified sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act and not any other provision of law, judicial ruling, or settlement agreement. (A 1997 settlement agreement, commonly known as the Flores agreement, imposes requirements relating to the treatment of detained alien minors, including requiring such minors to be released or placed in a nonsecure facility after a certain amount of time in detention.) If an adult enters the United States unlawfully with their child, DHS must detain the adult and child together if the only criminal charge against the adult is for unlawful entry. This section also prohibits states from imposing licensing requirements on immigration detention facilities used to detain minors or families with minors. TITLE V--PROTECTION OF CHILDREN (Sec. 502) This section modifies the treatment of unaccompanied alien children, including by requiring DHS to remove such children, with some exceptions, from the United States. Current law authorizes DHS to remove an unaccompanied alien child to their country of nationality or last habitual residence if that country is next to the United States. This section (1) eliminates the requirement that the country is next to the United States; and (2) requires DHS to remove the child, whereas currently DHS is authorized to do so. This section also authorizes immigration officers to permit such a child to withdraw their application for admission into the United States even if the child is unable to make an independent decision to withdraw the application. This section also establishes and modifies deadlines for the handling of unaccompanied alien children. For example, if the child is a victim of a severe form of human trafficking or has a credible fear of persecution, the child must be placed in formal removal proceedings and have a hearing before an immigration judge within 14 days of screening. Furthermore, before DHS places an unaccompanied alien child with an individual, the Department of Health and Human Services must provide DHS with certain information about the individual, including the individual's social security number and immigration status. DHS must initiate removal proceedings if the individual is unlawfully present. (Sec. 503) This section tightens the eligibility requirements for Special Immigrant Juvenile visas (immigrant visas for qualifying non-U.S. nationals under 21 years of age who are in the United States and have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent). Currently, an otherwise eligible individual may qualify for the visa if the individual cannot reunite with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment (i.e., an individual may qualify even if reunification with one parent is possible). Under this section, an individual shall not qualify for the visa if reunification is possible with any parent or legal guardian. TITLE VI--VISA OVERSTAYS PENALTIES (Sec. 601) This section increases the civil penalties for unlawful entry into the United States and establishes criminal penalties for overstaying a visa. An individual apprehended while unlawfully entering the United States shall be subject to a fine of at least $500 and up to $1,000 (currently at least $50 and up to $250). If an individual overstays a visa (or otherwise fails to comply with the conditions of a visa) for 10 days or more, on first offense the individual shall be subject to fines or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. For subsequent violations, the individual shall be subject to fines or imprisonment of up to two years, or both. TITLE VII--IMMIGRATION PAROLE REFORM (Sec. 701) This section limits the authority of DHS to grant parole (temporary admission into the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit that is granted on a case-by-case basis). Under this section, DHS may not grant parole based on eligibility criteria describing an entire class of potential parole recipients. This section restricts DHS from granting parole to non-U.S. nationals who are already in the United States, with specified exceptions, such as for certain individuals who already have an approved petition for a family-sponsored visa and are the spouse or child of an active duty member of the Armed Forces. The section further restricts the authority of DHS to grant parole, including by limiting (1) what constitutes granting parole on a case-by-case basis, (2) the authority to grant parole to purposes laid out in the section, and (3) the length of the parole period that may be granted to an individual. (Sec. 702) This title takes effect 30 days after enactment of this bill, with specified exceptions. (Sec. 703) This section authorizes persons (individuals or entities), states, and local governments to sue the federal government for failing to comply with this title's requirements if the person or government bringing the lawsuit suffered at least $1,000 of financial harm as a result of the failure.

Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act This bill includes Indian tribes as entities that can identify priority resource concerns under certain federal conservation programs. Currently, a priority resource concern is defined as a natural resource concern or problem, as determined by the Department of Agriculture, that is identified at the national, state, or local level as a priority for a particular area of a state. This bill expands the definition to include identification at the tribal level as a priority for a particular area on tribal land.

BUFFER Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

Building Up Farmland Frontiers for Ecological Resilience Act or the BUFFER Act This bill provides that certain land (that is under state regulations) is eligible to participate under the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Under CRP, the Department of Agriculture provides annual payments to agricultural producers to take highly erodible and environmentally sensitive land out of production and install resource-conserving practices.   Specifically, land otherwise eligible under the program remains eligible for enrollment even if a tribal, state, or other local law, ordinance, or other regulation requires any resource-conserving or environmental protection measure or practice. The bill includes an exception that makes the land ineligible under the program if the implementation requirement has been imposed by an administrative order or a court order. Current regulations exclude from enrollment eligibility (with exceptions) land that is subject to tribal, state, or other local laws, ordinances, or other regulations that require any resource-conserving or environmental protection measures or practices.

To amend the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act to require that the slaughter date, package date, freeze date, and country of origin be labeled on meat and poultry products.

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

This bill requires that meat and poultry labels include the slaughter date, package date, freeze date (for frozen products), and country of origin or U.S. state of origin.  Specifically, a meat or poultry product that fails to include this information on the label shall be deemed misbranded. (A misbranded food does not meet certain Department of Agriculture labeling requirements and may not be sold.) 

Precision Agriculture Workforce Training and Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

PLACE Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

Peer Learning for Agriculture Conservation Education Act of 2023 or the PLACE Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish an initiative and grant program to support peer learning projects related to a wide range of agriculture conservation activities. Under the bill, peer learning means an educational experience for agricultural producers or foresters that includes (1) farmer-, rancher-, or forester- led information sharing, education, or training activities; or (2) the provision of farmer-, rancher-, or forester- led technical assistance. As part of the initiative, USDA must provide at least five grants each fiscal year to support peer learning projects. 

Strengthening the Office of Tribal Relations Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

Strengthening the Office of Tribal Relations Act of 2023 This bill establishes the position of Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Tribal Relations within the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This position may be responsible for (1) overseeing USDA's Office of Tribal Relations; (2) planning, coordinating, and implementing USDA's policies and programs serving Indian tribes and tribal organizations; (3) coordinating tribal programs and activities in all of USDA's offices and agencies; and (4) participating in negotiated rulemakings associated with USDA's tribal programs.

BUFFER Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2023

Building Up Farmland Frontiers for Ecological Resilience Act or the BUFFER Act This bill provides that certain land (that is under state regulations) is eligible to participate under the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Under CRP, the Department of Agriculture provides annual payments to agricultural producers to take highly erodible and environmentally sensitive land out of production and install resource-conserving practices.   Specifically, land otherwise eligible under the program remains eligible for enrollment even if a tribal, state, or other local law, ordinance, or other regulation requires any resource-conserving or environmental protection measure or practice. The bill includes an exception that makes the land ineligible under the program if the implementation requirement has been imposed by an administrative order or a court order. Current regulations exclude from enrollment eligibility (with exceptions) land that is subject to tribal, state, or other local laws, ordinances, or other regulations that require any resource-conserving or environmental protection measures or practices.

Expressing support for the diplomatic relations required to encourage the Government of Mexico to fulfill its water deliveries on an annual basis to the United States under the treaty between the United States and Mexico regarding the utilization of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande.

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2023

This resolution expresses support for the diplomatic relations required to encourage the government of Mexico to make annual water deliveries to the United States under a 1944 treaty between the two countries. The resolution also acknowledges that farmers in south Texas are experiencing water shortages.

Designating the Guam and Western Pacific USDA Rural Development Office Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2023

Farmers’ Market Expansion Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2023

Farmers’ Market Expansion Act of 2023 This bill includes tree nuts as one of the eligible foods under the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).  The Department of Agriculture's SFMNP provides grants to participating states to provide low-income seniors with coupons/vouchers that may be used at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs to purchase eligible foods (i.e., fresh, nutritious, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey).

Safeguarding American Farms from Foreign Influence Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2023

Safeguarding American Farms from Foreign Influence Act This bill requires the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to determine whether a national security review is necessary for reportable agricultural land transactions that are referred by the Department of Agriculture (USDA). (CFIUS oversees the national security risks of certain foreign investment in the United States. CFIUS has the authority to review covered transactions, which include mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers that could result in foreign control of a U.S. business; certain noncontrolling investments in businesses involved in critical technologies, critical infrastructure, or sensitive personal data; and certain real estate transactions. The President may, at the recommendation of CFIUS, suspend or prohibit transactions that threaten to impair U.S. national security.) Specifically, the bill directs CFIUS to, within 30 days of receiving notification from USDA, determine (1) whether a reportable agricultural land transaction is a covered transaction, and (2) whether CFIUS should initiate a national security review or take another action with respect to the transaction.  Under this bill, reportable agricultural land transaction means a transaction (1) that USDA has reason to believe is a covered transaction; (2) that involves the acquisition of an interest in agricultural land by a foreign person, other than by a foreign person of an excepted foreign state or an excepted real estate foreign state, as such terms are defined in CFIUS regulations; and (3) with respect to which a foreign person is required to submit a report to USDA regarding their agricultural land transactions.

School MEALS Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2023

School Modernization and Efficient Access to Lunches for Students Act of 2023 or the School MEALS Act of 2023 This bill establishes programs and revises requirements relating to direct certification processes for the National School Lunch Program. Direct certification allows schools to use data matching procedures to approve school meals without the need for applications for children who receive assistance under other programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Specifically, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture to provide grants and technical assistance for states and tribal organizations to improve their direct certification processes, including with respect to children who receive assistance under a food distribution program on Indian reservations. The bill also expands the time frame for schools to elect and gather eligibility data for the Community Eligibility Provision that permits schools in high-poverty areas to serve free meals to all enrolled students without the need for applications. Further, the bill specifies that a state subject to a continuous improvement plan (for not directly certifying at least 95% of children eligible for direct certification because they receive SNAP benefits) must implement the improvement measures within three years.

School MEALS Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2023

School Modernization and Efficient Access to Lunches for Students Act of 2023 or the School MEALS Act of 2023 This bill establishes programs and revises requirements relating to direct certification processes for the National School Lunch Program. Direct certification allows schools to use data matching procedures to approve school meals without the need for applications for children who receive assistance under other programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Specifically, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture to provide grants and technical assistance for states and tribal organizations to improve their direct certification processes, including with respect to children who receive assistance under a food distribution program on Indian reservations. The bill also expands the time frame for schools to elect and gather eligibility data for the Community Eligibility Provision that permits schools in high-poverty areas to serve free meals to all enrolled students without the need for applications. Further, the bill specifies that a state subject to a continuous improvement plan (for not directly certifying at least 95% of children eligible for direct certification because they receive SNAP benefits) must implement the improvement measures within three years.

Basil Ivanhoe Gooden, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, vice Xochitl Torres Small, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 11 September 2023

Streamlining Organic Research Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2023

Streamlining Organic Research Act of 2023 This bill expands Department of Agriculture (USDA) support for organic agricultural research. USDA must establish the Coordinating and Expanding Organic Research Initiative for USDA resources dedicated to organic agricultural research. Every five years, the initiative must survey USDA's organic agricultural research and produce a report, including findings and recommendations on expanding research and increasing coordination. USDA must take the findings and recommendations into consideration when preparing USDA's annual budget recommendations. The bill also reauthorizes the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative through FY2028. Further, eligible grant projects are expanded to include (1) facilitating the identification and adoption of traditional ecological knowledge; (2) developing cultural practices and other allowable alternatives to substances recommended for removal from the National List of approved and prohibited substances for organic production; and (3) identifying how organic agriculture can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, build landscape resiliency, and facilitate other related ecosystem services. The bill also reauthorizes, and extends funding for, USDA's organic production and market data initiatives through FY2028. The Economic Research Service must conduct an economic impact analysis of organic agricultural management conducted in accordance with the National Organic Program. USDA may make competitive grants to support research, education, and extension activities relating to the transition from nonorganic into organic agricultural production systems.  Further, the Agricultural Research Service must submit a report to Congress on the resources needed to increase the research conducted on certified organic agricultural land.

SNAP E&T Enhancements Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2023

RNGR Support Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2023

Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetic Resources Support Act of 2023 or the RNGR Support Act of 2023 This bill provides statutory authority for the Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetics Resources (RNGR) program of the Forest Service. Under the program, (1) the Forest Service must provide assistance in supporting nurseries or seed orchards for trees or native plants, and (2) the Department of Agriculture (USDA) must establish a grant program to support of nurseries and seed orchards. Among other requirements, the bill directs the Forest Service to partner with federal and state agencies, Indian Tribes, and private nurseries to provide training, technical assistance, and research to nursery and tree establishment programs that support natural regeneration, reforestation, agroforestry, and afforestation; and expand climate-informed reforestation supply chains through science and research, seed collection and storage, and nursery infrastructure and operations. Under the grant program, USDA may make grants to state forestry agencies, Indian tribes, and certain private nurseries for projects that provide certain infrastructure for seeds and seedlings, establish or expand nurseries or seed orchards, develop or implement quality control measures at nurseries or seed orchards, promote workforce development within any facet of the reforestation pipeline, or  carry out certain other appropriate activities.

Small Farm Conservation Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2023

Rural Development Modernization Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2023

GIVE MILK Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2023

Giving Increased Variety to Ensure Milk Into the Lives of Kids Act or the GIVE MILK Act This bill revises the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to allow WIC participants (or the parent or guardian of such participants) to elect to be issued nonfat milk, 1% low-fat milk, 2% reduced-fat milk, or whole milk. Current WIC regulations restrict the milk choices for most women and children who are at least two years old to nonfat or 1% milk, with exceptions.     

A resolution designating August 2023 as "National Catfish Month".

United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2023

This resolution designates August 2023 as National Catfish Month. It also recognizes (1) the contributions of all workers, past and present, that produce, process, and provide catfish for the people of the United States; and (2) that purchasing U.S. farm-raised catfish supports farmers, jobs, and the U.S. economy.

Family Farmer and Rancher Tax Fairness Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2023

Family Farmer and Rancher Tax Fairness Act of 2023 This bill excludes from the gross income of certain farmers, ranchers, and forest land owners who are at financial risk payments for debt relief and for remedying past discrimination against such individuals.

Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2023

Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act This bill modifies provisions relating to qualified small issue bonds for manufacturing purposes by expanding the definition of manufacturing facility to include a facility that (1) is used in the creation or production of intangible property; or (2) is functionally related, subordinate to, and located on the same site as a facility used in the manufacturing or production of tangible or intangible personal property. The bill also increases from $10 million to $30 million the maximum bond size limitation. The bill modifies requirements for private activity bond financing for first-time farmers. The modified provisions (1) increase from $450,000 to $1 million (adjusted annually for inflation) the amount of bond proceeds that may be used by a first-time farmer to acquire land for farming purposes, (2) repeal the separate dollar limitation on the use of bond proceeds for used farm equipment, and (3) revise the definition of substantial farmland to determine farm size by reference to the average (instead of median) size of a farm in the county in which the farm is located.

Fair Credit for Farmers Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 29 August 2023

Rural Telehealth and Education Enhancement Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 29 August 2023

Rural Telehealth and Education Enhancement Act of 2023 This bill reauthorizes the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program through FY2028. This Department of Agriculture program provides grants to help rural communities gain the technology and training necessary to engage in telemedicine and distance learning.

Expressing the sense of Congress that August 30, 2023, be observed as the 133d anniversary of the 1890 Institutions.

United States · United States Congress · 29 August 2023

This concurrent resolution (1) recognizes the 133 years of significant and meaningful contributions the 1890 Institutions (i.e., historically Black universities established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890) have made to the United States, (2) supports the efforts of the Department of Agriculture and other federal agencies to build stronger partnerships with such institutions, and (3) commits to working in a bipartisan way to address the past funding and program inequities of such institutions.

Rural Forest Markets Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 29 August 2023

Rural Forest Markets Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a Rural Forest Market Investment Program to guarantee environmental impact bonds, loans, or other investment vehicles to enable rural private forest landowners to participate in voluntary environmental credit markets (i.e., voluntary markets through which environmental credits may be bought or sold). Projects eligible for the program are those developed by a private entity, state forestry agency, or publicly supported, charitable nonprofit organization engaged in the aggregation of sustainable forestry practices implemented by rural private forest landowners to facilitate the sale of credits in the voluntary environmental credit markets. These projects must use methodologies that (1) are approved by a credible, third-party entity; and (2) meet global benchmarks for high integrity. The bill has specific requirements for projects that include the practice of tree planting (e.g., be on land that was historically forested). In addition, the bill prohibits a bond, loan, or other investment vehicle guaranteed under the program from being used to create a floor price or artificial demand for the environmental credits generated. Further, under the program, USDA must guarantee not more than $150 million in the aggregate for bonds, loans, and other investment vehicles; assess certain fees to offset the subsidy cost of the issued guarantees; and issue implementing regulations.

Supporting Healthy Mothers and Infants Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 29 August 2023

Supporting Healthy Mothers and Infants Act of 2023 This bill modifies the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to add requirements for supporting individuals impacted by a substance use disorder. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Agriculture to collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop and disseminate nutrition education materials for individuals impacted by a substance use disorder, including materials for infants impacted by prenatal substance exposure and neonatal abstinence syndrome; conduct outreach to individuals who are potentially eligible for the WIC program and who are impacted by such a disorder; and make available to states through an online clearinghouse any nutrition education and training materials related to nutrition for individuals impacted by a substance use disorder or neonatal abstinence syndrome. In addition, the nutrition education materials developed in collaboration with HHS must be included in (1) Center for Substance Abuse Prevention-developed education materials, and (2) HHS guidance on improving care for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome and their families. 

Small Business Administration Rural Performance Report Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 August 2023

Small Business Administration Rural Performance Report Act This bill requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to report on its efforts to promote businesses and agricultural economies in rural areas. Specifically, the SBA must report about the activities of the Office of Rural Affairs, including how the office is promoting the availability of financial assistance for small businesses located in rural areas. The SBA also must report on its collaboration with the Department of Agriculture pursuant to the memorandum of understanding the agencies entered into on April 4, 2018, including the extent to which the SBA remains involved with the working groups convened under the memorandum.

Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 25 August 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.

Livestock Consolidation Research Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 25 August 2023

Livestock Consolidation Research Act of 2023 This bill requires the Economic Research Service (ERS) to publish a report on consolidation and concentration in the livestock industry (i.e., beef, dairy, pork, and poultry production, including broilers, eggs, and turkeys). ERS must publish the report within one year of the Census of Agriculture being made publicly available. The Census of Agriculture is conducted every five years; the 2022 census is scheduled for release in 2024. The ERS report must include (1) information on changes in the size and location of ranches, farms, processing facilities, and packers throughout the United States; and (2) the impact of these changes on farmers, ranchers, and downstream consumers.

America Grows Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 25 August 2023

America Grows Act of 2023 This bill permanently funds several agencies that perform agriculture research. The bill provides specified funding for the following agencies within the Department of Agriculture: the Agricultural Research Service, the Economic Research Service, the National Agricultural Statistics Service, and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The bill exempts the funding from sequestration, which is a process of automatic, usually across-the-board spending reductions under which budgetary resources are permanently cancelled to enforce specific budget policy goals. It also exempts the budgetary effects of the funding from the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 (PAYGO) and the Senate PAYGO rule.

EQIP Improvement Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 22 August 2023

EQIP Improvement Act of 2023 This bill amends the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to reduce and remove certain payment requirements. (EQIP provides technical and financial assistance to agricultural producers and forest landowners to address natural resource concerns.) Specifically, the bill reduces the maximum payments available to a person or legal entity under EQIP to $150,000 per five-year period (from the current level of $450,000), thereby allowing for an increase in the overall number of participants in the program; reduces federal cost sharing to 40% (from 75%) for the costs associated with planning, installation, or maintenance for specified conservation practices (e.g., access roads, dams, and waste storage facilities); and removes a requirement that 50% of EQIP funding payments go to livestock production programs.

National Agricultural Crisis Hotline Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 22 August 2023

National Agricultural Crisis Hotline Act of 2023 This bill establishes a national agricultural crisis hotline. The bill also reauthorizes the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) Program through FY2028. (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 Department of Agriculture (USDA) must establish, and maintain directly or by grant or contract, a national agricultural crisis hotline as part of the FRSAN. The crisis hotline must provide emotional support, information, suicide crisis intervention, mental health and substance use disorder, and agricultural support resources to farmers, farm managers, farm workers, and ranchers affected by mental health and substance use disorders and their families or household members. Under the program, USDA or an entity receiving a grant or contract must (1) form partnerships between the crisis hotline and existing farm telephone helplines and websites; and (2) develop, and periodically update, a directory of organizations to which hotline staff can make referrals. The bill also includes requirements for the qualifications and training for the call responders and supervisors operating the hotline, data collection by the hotline, and conducting a public awareness campaign for the hotline.  In addition, the bill expands the types of programs eligible for FRSAN grants to include mental health training for agriculture professionals (e.g., farm loan officers, extension agents, and state department of agriculture staff). 

To amend the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978 to enhance the long-term protection of watersheds, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 August 2023

This bill amends the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program to allow the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide for certain restoration activities. The EWP Program offers technical and financial assistance, including the purchase of floodplain easements, to safeguard people and property from floods, drought, fires, windstorms, and other natural disasters that impair a watershed. Under the bill, USDA may allow restoration above pre-disaster conditions if that restoration is in the best interest of the long-term health and protection of the watershed.

Flooding Prevention, Assessment, and Restoration Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 22 August 2023

Flooding Prevention, Assessment, and Restoration Act of 2023 This bill modifies Department of Agriculture (USDA) watershed programs. The bill modifies the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program to allow USDA to undertake certain measures that go beyond addressing the immediate impairment of the watershed. Specifically, USDA may undertake measures that increase the level of protection of the watershed if USDA determines that the restoration is in the best interest of the long-term health and the protection of the watershed from repetitive impairments. (The EWP Program assists sponsors, landowners, and operators in implementing emergency recovery measures for runoff retardation and erosion prevention to relieve imminent hazards to life and property created by natural disasters.)  In addition, for Watershed Rehabilitation Program (REHAB) projects that serve a limited resource area, the bill increases the federal cost-share to up to 90% of the total rehabilitation costs. Currently, the federal cost-share for all projects is 65% of the total rehabilitation costs. (REHAB assists project sponsors in rehabilitating aging watershed dams that are reaching the end of their design life or no longer meet federal or state safety criteria or performance standards.) USDA must also submit a national agriculture flood vulnerability report to Congress that contains the results of a conservation effects assessment project that studies flood risk on agricultural lands.     

Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 August 2023

Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act This bill directs the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with the Department of Agriculture, to determine a means of reinstating mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL) for beef that is compliant with World Trade Organization rules. (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.) The USTR must submit a report to specified congressional committees that includes (1) a description of its progress in determining a means of reinstating mandatory COOL for beef, and (2) recommendations for legislation that may be necessary and any engagement with other governments on this matter. The USTR must also seek to enter into consultations with the governments of Canada and Mexico to resolve outstanding trade disputes related to COOL for beef.

Specialty Crop Research Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 2023

Specialty Crop Research Act of 2023 This bill reauthorizes and provides funding for Department of Agriculture (USDA) research programs for specialty crops (i.e., fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture). Specifically, the bill increases FY2024-FY2028 funding for the Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI). The purpose of the SCRI program is to address the critical needs of the specialty crop industry by awarding grants to support research and extension activities that address key challenges of national, regional, and multi-state importance in sustaining all components of food and agriculture, including conventional and organic food production systems. The bill also reauthorizes and provides funding through FY2028 for the Inter-Regional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4 Project). The IR-4 Project conducts the research necessary for obtaining registrations of pest control agents for minor agricultural use and for use on specialty crops. USDA carries out the program in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Agency, state agricultural experiment stations, colleges and universities, extension services, private industry, and others.  

Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 2023

Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023 This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 and increases funding for the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program. This Natural Resources Conservation Service program provides state and tribal governments competitive grants to encourage owners and operators of privately-held land (i.e., farm, ranch, and forest land) to allow public access for hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-dependent recreation.

AGRITOURISM Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 2023

Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces Act or the AGRITOURISM Act This bill establishes an Office of Agritourism within the Department of Agriculture to encourage and promote, in each state, agritourism activities and businesses.

Renewable Energy for U.S. Territories Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 2023

Renewable Energy for U.S. Territories Act This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a grant program under which USDA may award grants to eligible nonprofit organizations for renewable energy systems, energy efficiency activities, energy storage, smart grids, or microgrids in U.S. territories. In addition, USDA may award grants to train residents of U.S. territories to develop, construct, maintain, or operate renewable energy systems. The Department of Energy must ensure that its national laboratories offer to provide technical assistance to grant recipients. The Government Accountability Office must study and report on renewable energy and energy efficiency in U.S. territories.