Summary of HR 3281: Prohibition on Funding Reductions for Land-Grant Colleges and Universities

Bill Number: HR 3281

Title: To prohibit the reduction, elimination, or suspension of funding for land-grant colleges and universities

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced Date: May 08, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 3281 is to safeguard the funding for land-grant colleges and universities by preventing any federal official, including the Secretary of Agriculture, from reducing, eliminating, or suspending their funding. This bill aims to ensure the continued financial support of these institutions, which play a crucial role in agricultural education, research, and extension services.

Key Provisions

1. Funding Protection:

   • The bill explicitly prohibits any federal action that would reduce, eliminate, or suspend funding for land-grant colleges and universities.
   • Any such action can only occur if it is specifically authorized by an Act of Congress.

2. Definition of Land-Grant Colleges and Universities:

   • The term "land-grant colleges and universities" is defined according to section 1404 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3103).

Affected Entities

• Land-Grant Colleges and Universities: These institutions, which include many public universities across the United States, are directly impacted by this bill as it seeks to protect their funding streams.
• Federal Officials: The bill places restrictions on the actions of federal officials, particularly those within the Department of Agriculture, regarding funding decisions.

Legislative Process and Timeline

• Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House on May 08, 2025.
• Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 3281 was referred to the Committee on Agriculture and the Committee on Education and Workforce. The Speaker will determine the period for consideration by these committees.

Conclusion

HR 3281 is a legislative effort aimed at ensuring the financial stability of land-grant colleges and universities by prohibiting any unauthorized reductions in their funding. By requiring Congressional approval for any funding changes, the bill seeks to maintain the vital role these institutions play in agricultural education and research. The bill is currently under consideration by relevant committees in the House.