Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB2589

Introduced
7/27/23  

Caption

AG RESEARCH Act Augmenting Research and Educational Sites to Ensure Agriculture Remains Cutting-Edge and Helpful Act

Impact

The bill addresses the alarming statistics surrounding deferred maintenance needs for agricultural research, which escalated from $8.4 billion in 2015 to $11.5 billion in 2021. It proposes a structured approach to provide federal funding aimed at upgrading infrastructure, promoting research efficacy, and fostering institutional resilience. Notably, the AG RESEARCH Act sets forth criteria for equitable distribution of grant funding, ensuring diverse institutions and varying geographical areas receive support. Such provisions are designed to balance priorities across the country, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in agricultural advancements.

Summary

SB2589, known as the AG RESEARCH Act, seeks to amend existing legislation related to agricultural research facilities by addressing issues of deferred maintenance that have accumulated over the years. The bill acknowledges the significant economic contributions of agriculture, which accounted for over $1.1 trillion of the GDP and provided millions of jobs in the U.S. It stresses the necessity for adequate funding and investment in research facilities to maintain the agricultural sector's competitiveness globally. The bill is a proactive measure to ensure that agricultural education and research remain at the forefront of innovation and efficacy within the industry.

Contention

Key points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of federal funds and the prioritization process outlined in the bill. Critics may argue that certain regions or types of institutions could be disadvantaged based on the proposed funding models. Furthermore, there is potential discourse around the efficiency and transparency of the federal grants process, as well as concerns over ensuring that the funds are allocated effectively to address the most pressing maintenance issues. The emphasis on infrastructure could also ignite debate among stakeholders about resource allocation across different fields of agricultural research.

Companion Bills

US HB4135

Related AG RESEARCH Act Augmenting Research and Educational Sites to Ensure Agriculture Remains Cutting-edge and Helpful Act

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