Farm Modernization Act
Section 1: Purpose
The purpose of this Act is to ensure the stability, sustainability, and modernization of the United States food supply infrastructure by providing targeted support and funding for American farms to adapt to evolving technological, environmental, and economic challenges.
Section 2: Establishment of the Farm Modernization Board
(a) Creation: The Department of Agriculture (USDA) shall establish a Farm Modernization Board (FMB) responsible for administering and overseeing programs established under this Act.
(b) Responsibilities:
Develop criteria for grant eligibility and funding allocation.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of modernization initiatives.
Collaborate with state and local agencies to streamline funding access.
Conduct periodic reviews to ensure equity and efficiency in program administration.
Develop an AI to aid farmers and provide access at no cost.
(c) Composition: The FMB shall include representatives from:
Federal agricultural agencies.
Farmers and ranchers (small, medium, and large-scale operations).
Experts in renewable energy, sustainability, and food security.
Public interest groups advocating for environmental and economic sustainability.
Section 3: Direct Funding Program
(a) Purpose: Establish a Direct Funding Program to provide financial assistance to farms for:
Modernizing power infrastructure to enhance productivity and resilience.
Developing renewable energy capabilities, including:
Solar energy systems.
Biogas production facilities and biogas power generators.
Other renewable energy sources as identified by the FMB.
Expanding underground and climate-resilient farming techniques.
Upgrading irrigation and water conservation systems.
Carbon and methane capture technology.
(b) Application and Approval:
Farms must submit a modernization plan outlining the intended upgrades and anticipated benefits.
The FMB will review and approve applications based on alignment with national food security goals, farm size, and financial need in an expedited fashion.
Section 4: Compliance with Regulations
(a) Regulatory Impact Assessment: Any new or existing farming regulations must prioritize the stability, longevity, and safety of the United States food supply.
(b) Grant Support for Compliance:
Farmers required to implement new regulations may apply for grant support to offset associated costs.
Grants will be scaled based on farm size, profitability, and operational capacity.
(c) Technical Assistance:
The USDA, in coordination with state agricultural offices, shall provide technical assistance to ensure farmers can effectively meet compliance requirements.
This is to include AI.
(d) Allocation:
Funds shall be distributed based on farm size and operational capacity:
Small-scale farms: 45% to 55% of costs.
Medium-scale farms: 35% to 45% of costs.
Large-scale farms: 25% to 35% of costs.
Additional adjustments may be made to address regional or sector-specific disparities.
Section 5: Environmental and Worker Safety Standards
(a) Environmental Protection:
All modernization efforts must include a streamlined, environmental impact assessment to ensure sustainability and conservation of resources.
(b) Worker Safety:
Modernization projects must include measures to enhance the safety and well-being of farm workers, including compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
Section 6: Reporting and Accountability
(a) Annual Reports:
The FMB shall submit an annual report to Congress detailing:
Program participation rates.
Funding allocation by farm size and region.
Measurable impacts on food security and farm resilience.
(b) Audits and Transparency:
Independent audits shall be conducted to ensure proper use of funds and prevent fraud or misuse.
Audit findings will be made publicly available.
Section 7: Appropriations
Funding for this Act shall be authorized by congress on a biannual biases with adjustments based on periodic reviews of program effectiveness and need, every three years.
Section 8: Implementation Timeline
This Act shall take effect on_____________ date, 60 days following its enactment; with the FMB required to establish initial program guidelines within 12 months.
