S.1042 - Smoke Exposure Research Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Smoke Exposure Research Act (S. 1042) directs the Agricultural Research Service to conduct research on the effects of wildfire smoke exposure on wine grapes. The research aims to identify compounds causing smoke taint, establish testing methodologies, create a database of background levels, develop risk assessment tools, and study barrier compounds. The Act authorizes $6.5 million in appropriations annually from 2026 through 2030.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to a better understanding of smoke taint in wine grapes and the development of methods to mitigate its effects. This could help protect the wine industry in regions prone to wildfires. The research will be coordinated with land-grant colleges and universities in California, Oregon, and Washington.
Potential Benefits
- Development of methods to reduce or eliminate smoke taint in wine grapes.
- Protection of the wine industry from economic losses due to wildfires.
- Creation of a reliable database of background levels of smoke taint compounds.
- Advancement of scientific knowledge regarding the effects of smoke exposure on viticulture.
- Support for land-grant colleges and universities in conducting relevant research.
Potential Disadvantages
- The Act requires significant funding ($6.5 million per year), which could be directed to other agricultural research areas.
- The research is geographically limited to California, Oregon, and Washington, potentially neglecting other wine-producing regions.
- The focus on wine grapes may divert resources from research on other crops affected by wildfire smoke.
- The Act does not address the root causes of wildfires or broader environmental concerns.
- The benefits are primarily focused on the wine industry, with limited direct benefits to the general public.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to support the agricultural sector and mitigate economic losses caused by wildfires. Specifically, the bill promotes economic activity within the wine industry, which contributes to the overall economy. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 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.
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).