Improving Coordination of Agriculture Research and Data Act
Improving Coordination of Agriculture Research and Data Act
Plain Language Summary
# Improving Coordination of Agriculture Research and Data Act Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to create two new organizations to better coordinate climate and agriculture research. The first is an advisory committee within USDA that would review and recommend policies for collecting climate-related agricultural data and conducting climate research. The second is a Rural Climate Alliance Network that would gather and share climate research, data, and technical advice to farmers, ranchers, food companies, nonprofits, and researchers. **Who It Affects** The bill directly impacts farmers, ranchers, foresters, aquaculture operators, and agricultural businesses by potentially giving them easier access to climate research and technical support.
It also affects USDA as an agency, which would need to establish and manage these new coordinating bodies. **Current Status** The bill (HR 1904) was introduced by Rep. Julia Brownley (D-California) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House. No action has been taken to advance it further.
CRS Official Summary
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.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology.