To amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to repeal certain provisions relating to the acceptance and use of contributions for public-private partnerships, and for other purposes.

# HR 773 Summary **What the Bill Does** HR 773 would eliminate a federal program that allows private companies and organizations to partner with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) by contributing money to conservation projects. Specifically, it repeals provisions from the "SUSTAINS Act" that were added to a 2023 spending bill. These partnerships currently fund projects related to climate change, carbon storage, wildlife habitat, and other environmental goals.

However, the bill would still allow the NRCS to accept private funding for established conservation programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program. **Who It Affects** This bill would impact farmers, ranchers, environmental organizations, and private companies that currently participate in or fund these public-private conservation partnerships. It would also affect the NRCS's ability to leverage private funding for certain environmental initiatives. The change would primarily affect agricultural and conservation communities that rely on or contribute to these partnership programs. **Current Status** HR 773 was introduced by Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.