Us Congress House Bill HB5061

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/27/23
• Refer: 7/27/23
• Refer: 9/26/23

Caption

Specialty Crop Domestic Market Promotion and Development Program Act of 2023

Impact

The enactment of HB 5061 would significantly impact agricultural policy by increasing federal assistance aimed at domestic specialty crops. The bill authorizes an annual appropriation of $75 million starting in fiscal year 2024 to support this initiative. Eligible organizations seeking these grants must demonstrate that any federal funds will supplement, not replace, funds from non-federal sources. This could foster better marketing strategies and encourage the growth of domestic markets, potentially leading to increased competition and better prices for consumers.

Summary

House Bill 5061, formally titled the Specialty Crop Domestic Market Promotion and Development Program Act of 2023, aims to amend the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004. The primary objective of the bill is to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a program that facilitates the granting of funds to eligible organizations. These grants would be utilized to promote the development, maintenance, and expansion of the commercial domestic market for specialty crop commodities produced in the United States.

Contention

There could be points of contention regarding the allocation of funds and eligibility criteria for receiving grants. Critics might argue that the grant program could primarily benefit larger agricultural organizations while marginalizing smaller producers. Additionally, there may be concerns about the funding limitations and requirements for matching funds, which could restrict access for some organizations. Discussions in committee may revolve around ensuring equity in funding distribution and the effectiveness of the proposed marketing plans by grant recipients.