Us Congress House Bill HB2246

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Refer: 4/28/23

Caption

To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for US Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service for fiscal year 2024.

Impact

The bill's implications are particularly noteworthy for the Economic Research Service, which plays a vital role in providing data and analysis that informs policy decisions at both the state and federal levels. By limiting funding, the bill raises concerns about the agency's capacity to conduct necessary research and analysis that contribute to agricultural policy development and economic planning overall. Stakeholders worry that reduced funding may hinder the agency's effectiveness and its ability to respond to evolving agricultural challenges.

Summary

House Bill 2246 seeks to impose a limitation on the availability of funds allocated to the Economic Research Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the fiscal year 2024. Specifically, the bill caps the funding at $86,757,000, which represents a significant measure for budget control within USDA’s operations. This initiative speaks to ongoing discussions in Congress about governmental spending and fiscal accountability, especially relating to agricultural economics and the research services that support it.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB2246 indicates a divide among legislators regarding the appropriate level of funding for the Economic Research Service. Proponents of the bill view it as a necessary fiscal discipline mechanism and an important step towards prioritizing budgetary constraints. Conversely, opponents argue that such funding cuts could compromise critical research initiatives associated with national food security and agricultural economics, suggesting that the limitations could stifle innovation and responsiveness within the agency.