US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB8344

Introduced
5/10/24  
Refer
5/10/24  

Caption

Texas Agricultural Producers Assistance Act

Impact

The introduction of HB8344 comes at a critical time as agricultural producers in Texas have been facing challenges stemming from water scarcity associated with cross-border issues. The report required by the legislation aims to outline existing programs and authorities within the Department of Agriculture that can be utilized for assistance. If passed, this bill could facilitate a structured response to address the economic hardships faced by Texas farmers, thereby potentially stabilizing the agricultural sector in the state.

Summary

House Bill 8344, titled the Texas Agricultural Producers Assistance Act, mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture submit a report detailing the available assistance for agricultural producers in Texas who have incurred economic losses due to Mexico's failure to deliver water. This problem arises from issues related to established international treaties regarding water distribution. The bill focuses on ensuring that farmers and producers who are suffering due to these circumstances are informed about potential resources and support.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to help agricultural producers, it may face scrutiny regarding the adequacy and responsiveness of federal resources in meeting the specified needs. Questions may arise about the effectiveness of existing programs and whether they align well with the specific challenges posed by the failure to deliver water. Additionally, the interaction with international treaties concerning water utilization may lead to further discussions about compliance and responsibilities between the United States and Mexico.

Companion Bills

US HB8467

Related Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024

Previously Filed As

US HB387

Texas Agricultural Producers Assistance Act

US HB7947

Agricultural Management Assistance Act of 2026

US SB4088

Agricultural Management Assistance Act of 2026

US HR630

Commending agricultural producers in Virginia.

US HB1941

AN ACT Relating to authorizing agricultural cooperatives for cannabis producers;

US HB389

Southern Border Farmers and Ranchers Protection ActThis bill directs the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to provide payments to agricultural producers to implement certain conservation practices in counties at or near the Texas southern border. In general, this Department of Agriculture program provides technical and financial assistance to agricultural producers and forest landowners to address natural resource concerns.Specifically, EQIP must provide payments to agricultural producers to implement conservation practices to address and repair damage to agricultural land and farming infrastructure that is in a county at or near the Texas southern border and contributes to natural resource concerns or problems.

US HB43

Relating to the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority and certain programs administered by the authority.

US HB1904

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.

US HF799

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations related to agriculture, including crop production, animal health, agricultural processing, and agricultural marketing, providing for powers and duties of the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, and providing penalties.(Formerly HSB 143; See HF 998.)

US HSB143

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations related to agriculture, including crop production, animal health, agricultural processing, and agricultural marketing, providing for powers and duties of the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, and providing penalties.(See HF 799, HF 998.)

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