To transfer the functions, duties, responsibilities, assets, liabilities, orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, grants, loans, contracts, agreements, certificates, licenses, and privileges of the United States Agency for International Development relating to implementing and administering the Food for Peace Act to the Department of Agriculture.

Summary of HR 1207: Transfer of Food for Peace Act Responsibilities

Bill Number: HR 1207

Introduced On: February 11, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: Tracey Mann

Cosponsors: 30 additional members

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 1207 is to transfer the responsibilities and functions related to the Food for Peace Act from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This bill aims to streamline the administration of food assistance programs and enhance the efficiency of food security initiatives in the United States.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

1. Transfer of Functions:

   • All functions, duties, responsibilities, assets, and liabilities of the USAID Administrator concerning the Food for Peace Act (7 U.S.C. 1691 et seq.) will be transferred to the Secretary of Agriculture upon the enactment of this bill.

2. Regulatory References:

   • Any legal references to the USAID Administrator or Agency will be updated to refer to the Secretary of Agriculture or the relevant department within the USDA.

3. Regulatory Amendments:

   • The Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to implement amendments to existing regulations as interim final rules, allowing for immediate effectiveness to ensure program continuity.

4. Exercise of Statutory Authorities:

   • The Secretary of Agriculture will have the authority to exercise any existing statutory powers previously held by the USAID Administrator related to the Food for Peace Act.

5. Famine Early Warning Systems Network:

   • The Secretary of Agriculture will continue to manage the Famine Early Warning Systems Network, which provides critical analyses to help mitigate food insecurity.

6. Consultation with the Secretary of State:

   • The Secretary of Agriculture is required to consult with the Secretary of State periodically while executing the authorities under Title II of the Food for Peace Act.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

• Department of Agriculture: The USDA will gain additional responsibilities and resources related to food assistance programs.
• USAID: The agency will see a reduction in its role concerning the Food for Peace Act, focusing on other international development initiatives.
• Food Assistance Programs: Beneficiaries of food assistance programs may experience changes in program administration and delivery, potentially impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of aid distribution.

Procedural Aspects

• Committee Review: The bill has been referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Agriculture for further consideration.
• Timeline: The bill was introduced on February 11, 2025, and will undergo review and potential amendments before further legislative action.

Related Legislation

• S 525: A companion bill in the Senate that addresses similar provisions regarding the transfer of responsibilities from USAID to the USDA.

This summary provides an overview of HR 1207, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impacts on food assistance programs and the agencies involved.