To amend the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 to establish an Office of Kosher and Halal Foods, and for other purposes.
Impact
The establishment of this office will likely enhance the capacity for the USDA to procure and distribute kosher and halal food within its various programs, including emergency food assistance. This legislative move acknowledges that while a substantial portion of food has kosher certification in the marketplace, current federal programs have insufficient options that cater to individuals with these dietary restrictions. As such, the bill aims for a systemic improvement in emergency food assistance to ensure that those with religiously mandated diets are not forced to forgo food due to a lack of suitable options.
Summary
House Bill 9980 aims to amend the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 by establishing an Office of Kosher and Halal Foods. This office will be tasked with ensuring that individuals adhering to kosher and halal dietary restrictions have full and fair access to food programs administered by the USDA. With the significant populations of Jewish and Muslim Americans, the intent is to address food insecurity among these communities by improving the availability of kosher and halal options in existing nutrition assistance programs.
Contention
There may be points of contention surrounding the funding allocations necessary for the establishment and operation of the Office of Kosher and Halal Foods. The bill allocates $1.6 million annually from the budget to support its activities until 2029. Critics may question whether this allocation is sufficient or if it constitutes an appropriate use of public funds, particularly in a political climate where budgeting for various social programs is heavily scrutinized. Additionally, the enforcement of these dietary requirements could spark discussions about regulation and federal versus state control over food assistance programs.
To provide for the reform and continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2029, and for other purposes.
A bill to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and administer a pilot program to provide grants to support Food is Medicine programs, and for other purposes.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)