H.R.2883 - New Opportunities for Technological Innovation, Mitigation, and Education To Overcome Waste Act,; NO TIME TO Waste Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2883, the "NO TIME TO Waste Act," aims to reduce food loss and waste through various initiatives. It establishes an Office of Food Loss and Waste within the Department of Agriculture and authorizes grants and programs to support data collection, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships. The bill also focuses on interagency collaboration and public awareness campaigns to achieve a 50% reduction in food loss and waste by 2030, compared to 2016 levels.
The Act addresses food loss at multiple stages, from production to consumption. It emphasizes research, technological innovation, and educational efforts to minimize waste and promote food recovery.
Finally, the bill includes provisions for composting programs and strengthens the government's approach to food loss and waste by engaging federal contractors and prioritizing research grants.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would likely lead to increased funding and focus on reducing food loss and waste across the United States. This could result in more efficient food systems, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and improved food security.
Specifically, the establishment of the Office of Food Loss and Waste would provide a central point for coordinating efforts and tracking progress. The grant programs and public-private partnerships would incentivize innovation and collaboration at the state and local levels.
Ultimately, the Act aims to shift consumer behavior and industry practices towards greater sustainability and resource efficiency in the food sector.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced food waste leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- Increased food recovery efforts, potentially alleviating food insecurity.
- Support for farmers and food producers through research and infrastructure improvements.
- Creation of new business opportunities in upcycled food products and waste reduction technologies.
- Enhanced public awareness and education regarding food waste prevention.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending and administrative overhead.
- Possible regulatory burdens on businesses in the food industry.
- Challenges in accurately measuring and tracking food loss and waste reduction.
- Risk of ineffective programs or initiatives that fail to achieve desired outcomes.
- Dependence on voluntary participation from individuals and organizations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on agricultural and environmental matters aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble). Congress has broad authority to regulate interstate commerce, which includes the production, distribution, and consumption of food. The establishment of federal programs and agencies is consistent with the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8), allowing Congress to enact laws needed to carry out its enumerated powers.
However, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments. The emphasis on collaboration and partnerships suggests a respect for state and local autonomy.
Overall, the bill seems to operate within the bounds of constitutional authority.
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).