Plain Language Summary
# FARM Act Summary **What the Bill Does** The FARM Act (Foreign Adversary Risk Management Act) would strengthen oversight of foreign investments in American agriculture. Specifically, it would add the Secretary of Agriculture to a government committee (CFIUS) that reviews foreign investments in the U.S., and require that committee to examine any deal that could give foreign entities control of U.S. farms or agricultural businesses. The bill also treats agricultural systems and supply chains as "critical infrastructure," similar to how the government protects military or energy systems. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects foreign investors seeking to buy stakes in American agricultural companies, as well as U.S.
farming operations that might attract foreign investment. It also requires two government agencies—the Department of Agriculture and the Government Accountability Office—to study and report on how much foreign influence currently exists in the U.S. agricultural industry. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. No action has been taken on it yet.
CRS Official Summary
Foreign Adversary Risk Management Act or the FARM ActThis bill places the Secretary of Agriculture on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). It also requires CFIUS to review any investment that could result in foreign control of any U.S. agricultural business.Further, the bill includes agricultural systems and supply chains in the definitions of critical infrastructure and critical technologies for the purposes of reviewing such investments.The Department of Agriculture and the Government Accountability Office must each analyze and report on foreign influence in the U.S. agricultural industry.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.