To transfer the functions, duties, responsibilities, assets, liabilities, orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, grants, loans, contracts, agreements, certificates, licenses, and privileges of the United States Agency for International Development relating to implementing and administering the Food for Peace Act to the Department of Agriculture.
Impact
The bill proposes amendments to existing laws to facilitate this transfer while ensuring that the continuity of operations is maintained through the implementation of interim regulations. By centralizing these duties under the Department of Agriculture, the bill aims to align food security efforts more closely with agricultural policies and programs. The Secretary of Agriculture will retain necessary authorities under the Food for Peace Act, enabling them to effectively manage food assistance initiatives and respond to food insecurity challenges more robustly.
Summary
House Bill 1207 seeks to transfer the responsibilities and functions related to the Food for Peace Act from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the Department of Agriculture. This transition includes the transfer of assets, liabilities, and various operational components of USAID that pertain to the Food for Peace Act. This bill aims to streamline the administration and implementation of food assistance programs, focusing on improving the efficiency of these efforts in alleviating hunger both domestically and internationally.
Contention
While the bill has the potential to create efficiencies in food assistance programs, there may be concerns regarding the operational changes it entails. Stakeholders might debate the implications of shifting these responsibilities from USAID, an agency with extensive experience in development and international relations, to the Department of Agriculture, which has a different focus. The discussions could center on whether this transfer might dilute the effectiveness of food assistance initiatives or impact the levels of international engagement essential for addressing global food insecurity.
Same As
A bill to transfer the functions, duties, responsibilities, assets, liabilities, orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, grants, loans, contracts, agreements, certificates, licenses, and privileges of the United States Agency for International Development relating to implementing and administering the Food for Peace Act to the Department of Agriculture.
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.
To nullify Executive Order 14072 and prohibit the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior from implementing, administering, or enforcing such Executive Order or any substantially similar executive order.
Expressing support for the designation of April 4, 2024, as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, and reaffirming the leadership of the United States in eliminating landmines and unexploded ordnance.