To provide for a study on food animal microbiomes, and for other purposes.
Impact
The bill seeks to enhance animal health and food safety by promoting a better understanding of the food animal microbiome's functional components. By filling the knowledge gaps identified in current and past research, the findings could lead to significant improvements in agricultural production processes. Additionally, the legislation allocates $1 million to support the funding of this study, indicating a commitment to investing in agricultural research that can ultimately benefit both consumers and producers.
Summary
House Bill 4698 aims to advance the understanding of food animal microbiomes through a comprehensive federal study. Introduced on July 18, 2023, the bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to collaborate with the National Academies within 180 days after enactment to develop a research agenda focused on various species such as cattle, poultry, small ruminants, and aquaculture. The central goal is to evaluate existing research gaps and assess the needs of stakeholders in government, research, and the private sector regarding animal microbiomes.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 4698 may include discussions about the allocation of research funds and the prioritization of animal microbiome studies in relation to other pressing agricultural issues. Stakeholders may express differing opinions on the necessity of such studies, especially if they perceive other areas, such as crop sciences or climate-related research, as more urgent. The collaboration with the National Academies could also lead to debates about the effectiveness and scope of federal involvement in agricultural research initiatives.
To amend the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to authorize grants for eligible institutions to carry out agriculture workforce training programs, and for other purposes.
A bill to require the establishment of a working group to evaluate the threat to food safety and animal health posed by beef imported from Brazil, and for other purposes.
A bill to improve coordination between the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation on activities carried out under the National Quantum Initiative Program, and for other purposes.