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Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2023
3/12/2024, 4:08 AM
Summary of Bill S 1740
Specifically, the bill proposes to establish a grant program that would provide funding to community colleges for the development and expansion of agriculture-related programs. These programs could include courses in agronomy, animal science, horticulture, and other agricultural disciplines. The goal is to ensure that students have access to high-quality education and training that will prepare them for careers in agriculture.
In addition to funding for program development, the bill also includes provisions for research and innovation in agriculture. It calls for partnerships between community colleges and agricultural research institutions to promote collaboration and the sharing of knowledge and resources. This could lead to advancements in agricultural technology and practices that benefit both students and the industry as a whole. Overall, the Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to support and strengthen agricultural education at the community college level. By providing funding for program development and research, the bill aims to ensure that students have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field of agriculture.
Congressional Summary of S 1740
Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2023
This bill authorizes the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make competitive grants to assist eligible entities in maintaining and expanding their capacity to conduct workforce training, education, research, and outreach activities related to agriculture and similar disciplines. An eligible entity includes a junior or community college, or a consortium or alliance of two-year public colleges, supporting agriculture advancement.
In awarding grants, USDA must give priority to entities coordinating with a local agriculture industry operator to provide experiential training and other opportunities for students.
Grant funds may be used to expand and maintain the capacity of the eligible entity, including through the purchase or other acquisition of equipment and other infrastructure, the professional growth and development of faculty, and the development of apprenticeships and other work-based learning opportunities.
An eligible entity may submit to USDA an application for designation and funding as a Center of Excellence for Agriculture Advancement. Funding received as a result of such a designation must be used to demonstrate agriculture best practices and to provide leadership in capacity building at a regional or national level.
