Summary#
This bill would add a new program to the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998. The U.S. Department of Agriculture would run a competitive grant program to help establish and improve farming and ranching opportunities for military veterans (as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2)). Eligible applicants include cooperative extension services; land-grant, non-land-grant, and Hispanic-serving agricultural colleges; State departments of agriculture; nonprofits; community-based organizations; or partnerships of these groups. Grant funds could be used for classroom training and education about farm and ranch operations and management; creating or identifying curriculum for veteran farmers and ranchers; workshops, tours, and supervised field experiences; and other Secretary-identified activities to increase veteran participation in agriculture. Recipients must provide non-Federal matching funds at least equal to the grant amount. The bill authorizes $5,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to carry out the program.
What it means for you#
- Veterans interested in farming or ranching: The bill would create education and training opportunities aimed at helping veterans start or improve agricultural businesses.
- Colleges, extension services, nonprofits, and State agriculture departments: These groups could apply for competitive grants to run programs for veterans. Successful applicants must provide matching funds equal to the grant amount.
- Timeline and status: The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and was referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity. No publicly available information on final approval, implementation details, or program deadlines.
Expenses#
- The bill authorizes $5,000,000 to be appropriated for each fiscal year 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030 to run the grant program.
- Grant recipients must provide non-Federal matching funds equal to at least the amount of the grant they receive.
- No publicly available information on estimated total federal outlays, cost estimates from the Congressional Budget Office, or how appropriations would be allocated across projects.
Proponents' View#
No publicly available information.
Opponents' View#
No publicly available information.