S.1209 - American Prairie Conservation Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1209, the American Prairie Conservation Act, aims to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996. The bill focuses on native sod provisions, making them applicable across the United States and modifying existing regulations. It requires producers who till native sod for crop production to certify their acreage to the Secretary of Agriculture.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased oversight and reporting requirements for agricultural producers who convert native sod to cropland. This could potentially impact crop insurance benefits and noninsured crop disaster assistance. The Secretary of Agriculture will be required to submit annual reports to Congress detailing the certified tilled native sod acreage.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced conservation of native sod, which provides ecological benefits such as carbon sequestration and wildlife habitat.
- Improved data collection on native sod conversion, allowing for better-informed policy decisions.
- Potential reduction in soil erosion and water pollution associated with tilling native sod.
- Increased transparency and accountability in the crop insurance program.
- Support for sustainable agricultural practices.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden for farmers due to certification and reporting requirements.
- Potential reduction in crop insurance benefits for some producers who convert native sod.
- Possible limitations on agricultural expansion and crop production on certain lands.
- Concerns about the definition and identification of "native sod".
- Potential for increased costs associated with compliance.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. Congress has the power to regulate agriculture and provide for the general welfare of the United States under Article I, Section 8. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).