Us Congress House Bill HB2249

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, Agriculutral Research Service, Buildings and Facilities for fiscal year 2024.

Impact

The implications of HB2249 may include constraints on the ARS's ability to maintain or improve existing facilities and buildings. This limitation could hinder the agency's operational capacity to conduct critical agricultural research, which plays an essential role in addressing issues such as food security and agricultural technology. If funding is reduced, it could affect ongoing projects, staff employment, and the overall effectiveness of agricultural research in the United States.

Summary

House Bill 2249 seeks to set a limitation on the availability of funds for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS), specifically limiting allocations for buildings and facilities to $127,805,000 for the fiscal year 2024. This bill is part of a broader scrutiny over federal spending, particularly in the context of agricultural research and facility management. Supporters of the bill argue that it's necessary to control costs and ensure accountability within government spending, especially within federal agencies engaged in agricultural research, which is vital for advancements in food production and safety.

Contention

There may be notable contention regarding the adequacy of the proposed funding levels. Critics could argue that limiting funds to this level may compromise the quality and scope of agricultural research, potentially resulting in negative outcomes for farmers and consumers alike. The bill has the potential to spark debates about the appropriate level of investment in critical agricultural infrastructure and whether such limits are aligned with the nation’s goals for food sustainability and technological advancement.