H.R.2396 - Honor Farmer Contracts Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2396, the Honor Farmer Contracts Act, aims to unfreeze funding for Department of Agriculture contracts, prevent the closure of Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offices, and ensure timely payments to farmers and entities providing assistance. The bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to immediately unfreeze funding and implement existing written agreements and contracts. It also requires the Secretary to pay all past due amounts owed under these agreements and contracts.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits the cancellation of signed agreements or contracts with farmers or entities unless they fail to comply with the terms. It also prevents the closure of FSA county offices, NRCS field offices, or Rural Development Local Service Centers without prior written notice and justification to Congress, at least 60 days before the intended closure date.
The bill seeks to provide stability and predictability for farmers and related entities by ensuring that contracts are honored and vital support services remain accessible.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is increased financial stability for farmers and entities involved in agricultural contracts with the Department of Agriculture. It will prevent disruptions caused by funding freezes and office closures.
Farmers can expect more reliable access to government support and resources. This bill could also lead to improved long-term planning and investment in agricultural operations.
Additionally, the requirement for congressional notification before office closures ensures greater transparency and accountability in government decision-making.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures farmers receive payments and support as agreed upon in contracts.
- Prevents disruption of agricultural services due to office closures.
- Provides stability and predictability for farmers and related entities.
- Promotes transparency and accountability in government actions related to agriculture.
- Supports the agricultural sector by maintaining essential services and financial commitments.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending if contracts were previously frozen due to budget constraints.
- May limit the flexibility of the Department of Agriculture to adjust programs based on changing needs or priorities.
- Could create administrative burdens associated with providing written justification to Congress for office closures.
- Risk of perpetuating inefficient or outdated contracts if they are automatically unfrozen without review.
- Possible delays in implementing new agricultural initiatives due to the focus on fulfilling existing contracts.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to support farmers and the agricultural sector, contributing to the nation's food security and economic stability. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Constitution grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under the purview of providing for the general welfare by supporting agriculture.
However, the requirement for the Secretary of Agriculture to provide written notice and justification to Congress before closing offices could be seen as an exercise of congressional oversight, which is generally within the powers granted to Congress.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).