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Increasing Land Access, Security, and Opportunities Act
12/21/2023, 5:15 AM
Summary of Bill S 2340
One key aspect of the bill is the establishment of a Land Access and Security Program, which will provide grants to states and tribal governments to support efforts to increase access to land for recreational, conservation, and other purposes. The program will also prioritize projects that enhance security measures on public lands to prevent illegal activities such as poaching and vandalism.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to streamline the permitting process for land access and use, making it easier for individuals and organizations to obtain the necessary approvals to utilize land for activities such as hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The bill also includes measures to promote collaboration between federal, state, and tribal governments to improve land management practices and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. Overall, the Increasing Land Access, Security, and Opportunities Act seeks to address challenges related to land access and security in the United States by providing support for initiatives that promote responsible land use and conservation. The bill aims to enhance opportunities for individuals and organizations to access and enjoy the benefits of public lands while also protecting these valuable resources for future generations.
Congressional Summary of S 2340
Increasing Land Access, Security, and Opportunities Act
This bill provides statutory authority for and expands the Farm Service Agency's (FSA's) Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program (the Increasing Land Access Program) for farmers, ranchers, and forest owners.
Specifically, the FSA must make competitive grants to, enter into cooperative agreements with, or provide other capital support to eligible entities (e.g., state or local governments, Indian tribes, nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher education) to provide direct assistance to (1) historically underserved farmers, ranchers, and forest owners; (2) farmers, ranchers, and forest owners operating in high-poverty areas; or (3) young and beginning farmers. The bill specifically excludes from assistance any foreign-based or foreign-owned corporation.
The direct assistance may include payments to intended beneficiaries to acquire real property (including air rights and water rights), secure clear title on an heirs' property farmland, and improve or remediate land, water, and soil. Eligible entities may also use grants (1) to provide direct assistance to intended beneficiaries in assessing, purchasing, acquiring, or retaining eligible land; (2) for activities designed to support farm establishment and long-term viability; and (3) to provide technical assistance.
The FSA must establish a stakeholder committee, and in collaboration with the committee, develop a process for evaluating and selecting applications submitted by eligible entities. The stakeholder committee must include perspectives from a diverse range of stakeholders, including a diverse representation of geographic distribution and farming models, practices, and purposes.
