Strengthening Organic Agricultural Research (SOAR) Act of 2023
Impact
The proposed legislation is expected to have a substantial positive impact on state laws concerning agricultural practices. By directing resources towards organic research, the bill intends to stimulate advancements in sustainable agricultural practices, which could lead to improvements in crop resilience and environmental quality. Additionally, by funding the transition programs, the bill could facilitate more farmers adopting organic practices, thereby potentially expanding the organic market and contributing to rural economic development. However, while the intent is to bolster organic agriculture, there may be concerns about the effectiveness of the allocated funds and how these changes will affect existing agricultural frameworks.
Summary
House Bill 2720, known as the Strengthening Organic Agricultural Research (SOAR) Act of 2023, aims to enhance the support for organic agricultural research initiatives within the United States. The bill directs the Agricultural Research Service to prioritize and expand its organic research capabilities, particularly focusing on the transition of conventional farming practices to organic methodologies. One of the notable features of the bill is its call for increased funding, proposing a steady increase in appropriations from $60 million in fiscal year 2024 to $100 million by fiscal year 2028, thereby reflecting a commitment to significantly support organic agricultural research over the upcoming years.
Contention
Discussions surrounding HB2720 may increase debate between traditional agricultural stakeholders and proponents of organic farming. Critics of the extensive funding directed towards organic research might express concerns regarding the distribution of federal funds, especially if they believe that conventional farming practices also require attention and funding. Moreover, as the organic market continues to grow, traditional farmers might worry about market competition and the perceived advantages given to organic producers through government support. Thus, the bill could potentially deepen the divide over agricultural policy priorities within the state.
Improving Coordination of Agriculture Research and Data ActThis bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish an Agriculture Climate Scientific Research Advisory Committee and a Rural Climate Alliance Network. The advisory committee, within USDA's Office of the Chief Scientist, must review and make recommendations on the agency's long-term and short-term national policies and priorities for (1) data collection for climate-specific agricultural research, extension, education, and economics; and (2) agricultural climate research.The Rural Climate Alliance Network must coordinate the provision of agriculture climate research, climate data, extension, and technical assistance for agricultural producers, the food and agricultural industry, nonprofit organizations, and researchers. The bill defines an agricultural producer as an individual who is engaged in farming, ranching, forestry, aquaculture, or another occupation relating to agriculture.USDA must also submit a report to Congress that includes a long-term strategy for responding to the challenges faced by agricultural producers that may impact agricultural producers' climate change resilience. The report must also include recommendations for further action by federal departments and agencies that are based on best practices.