A bill to amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 to prevent harm and disruption to the United States agriculture industry by protecting against foreign influence over agriculture production and supply chains, and for other purposes.

1/24/2025, 11:56 AM

Summary of Bill S 179

Bill 119 s 179, also known as the Agriculture Security Act, aims to amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 in order to safeguard the United States agriculture industry from potential harm and disruption caused by foreign influence. The bill seeks to protect against foreign control over agriculture production and supply chains, ensuring the security and stability of the industry.

The Agriculture Security Act addresses the growing concern over the vulnerability of the agriculture sector to foreign interference, particularly in light of recent global events that have highlighted the importance of maintaining a secure and reliable food supply. By strengthening the Defense Production Act, the bill aims to bolster the resilience of the agriculture industry and reduce the risk of disruptions that could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and national security.

Key provisions of the bill include measures to enhance oversight and regulation of foreign investments in the agriculture sector, as well as to promote domestic production and self-sufficiency. The bill also includes provisions to improve coordination and communication between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and other relevant parties to better protect against potential threats to the agriculture industry. Overall, the Agriculture Security Act represents a proactive and comprehensive approach to safeguarding the United States agriculture industry from foreign influence and ensuring the continued strength and stability of this vital sector of the economy. By taking steps to protect against potential harm and disruption, the bill aims to secure the future of American agriculture and ensure the nation's food security for generations to come.

Congressional Summary of S 179

Foreign Adversary Risk Management Act or the FARM Act

This bill places the Secretary of Agriculture on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). It also requires CFIUS to review any investment that could result in foreign control of any U.S. agricultural business.

Further, the bill includes agricultural systems and supply chains in the definitions of critical infrastructure and critical technologies for the purposes of reviewing such investments.

The Department of Agriculture and the Government Accountability Office must each analyze and report on foreign influence in the U.S. agricultural industry.

Current Status of Bill S 179

Bill S 179 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 22, 2025. Bill S 179 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 22, 2025. Bill S 179's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. as of January 22, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 179

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 179

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 179

A bill to amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 to prevent harm and disruption to the United States agriculture industry by protecting against foreign influence over agriculture production and supply chains, and for other purposes.A bill to amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 to prevent harm and disruption to the United States agriculture industry by protecting against foreign influence over agriculture production and supply chains, and for other purposes.

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