H.R.3313 - Protecting American Farmland Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3313, the Protecting American Farmland Act, aims to prevent the conversion of prime farmland into solar energy projects. It prohibits federal agencies from using funds for solar projects that convert prime farmland and excludes facilities on prime farmland from certain clean energy tax credits. The bill amends sections of the Internal Revenue Code to reflect these exclusions.
Expected Effects
The bill would likely reduce the development of solar energy facilities on prime farmland. This could lead to increased pressure to develop solar projects on other types of land, or potentially slow the growth of solar energy production. It may also impact the profitability of solar projects planned for or already located on prime farmland.
Potential Benefits
- Preservation of prime farmland for agricultural use.
- Potential stabilization of food production capacity.
- Discourages urban sprawl by limiting solar development on farmland.
- May encourage solar development in less ecologically sensitive areas.
- Could lead to innovation in solar panel placement, such as rooftops or brownfields.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially slows down the expansion of solar energy production.
- May increase the cost of solar energy projects due to land constraints.
- Could lead to conflicts between agricultural and energy interests in other land areas.
- May reduce the economic viability of some solar projects.
- Could hinder efforts to meet renewable energy goals.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). The bill modifies tax credits and restricts federal funding, which falls under this power. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or state powers.
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).