Summary of HR 3656: Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act Amendment

Bill Number: HR 3656

Introduced: May 29, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: Kim Schrier

Cosponsors: Includes Ro Khanna, Paul Tonko, Jack Bergman, and others.

Purpose of the Bill

HR 3656 aims to amend the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998. The primary intent of this legislation is to provide the Secretary of Agriculture with the authority to waive the matching funds requirement for grants awarded under the Specialty Crop Research Initiative. This change is designed to enhance funding accessibility for research initiatives focused on specialty crops.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following amendments to Section 412(g)(3) of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998:

1. Modification of Grant Requirements:
   • The existing language in subparagraph (A) is revised to clarify that "Subject to subparagraph (C), an entity" can apply for grants.
   • A new subparagraph (C) is added, which states that the Secretary of Agriculture may waive the matching funds requirement for grants awarded under this section on or after the date of enactment.

Impact of the Bill

• Beneficiaries:

  • The waiver of the matching funds requirement is expected to benefit a wide range of entities involved in specialty crop research, including universities, agricultural organizations, and private sector stakeholders.
  • By reducing financial barriers, the bill aims to encourage more innovative research and development in the specialty crop sector.

• Research and Development:

  • The bill is anticipated to stimulate growth in the specialty crop industry by facilitating more research projects that may have been previously hindered by funding constraints.

Legislative Process

• Committee Referral: The bill was referred to the House Committee on Agriculture on the same day it was introduced (May 29, 2025).
• Next Steps: The bill will undergo review and discussion within the committee before potentially moving forward for a vote in the House.

Conclusion

HR 3656 represents a significant step towards enhancing funding opportunities for specialty crop research. By allowing the Secretary of Agriculture to waive matching funds, the bill seeks to promote innovation and support the agricultural sector's growth, particularly in specialty crops. The outcome of this legislation could have lasting implications for agricultural research funding and the overall health of the specialty crop industry.