Women in Agriculture Act

Hozzl · 2025-05-06T20:28:47Z

Explore the details of House Bill 2638 Women in Agriculture Act currently in Congress. Get insights into its purpose, current status, sponsors, and potential impact on Agriculture and Food. Stay informed on legislative developments.

5/6/2025, 8:28 PM

Summary of Bill HR 2638

Bill 119 HR 2638, also known as the Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison Act, aims to amend the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 by creating a new position within the department. This position, the Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison, will be responsible for advocating for the needs and interests of women in the agriculture industry.

The bill recognizes the important contributions that women make to the agricultural sector and seeks to ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed. By establishing this liaison position, the Department of Agriculture hopes to better support and empower women farmers and ranchers across the country.

In addition to creating the Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison position, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to women in agriculture. These may include initiatives to provide resources, support, and opportunities for women in the industry, as well as efforts to address any barriers or challenges they may face. Overall, Bill 119 HR 2638 is a step towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity in the agricultural sector. By recognizing and supporting the unique needs of women farmers and ranchers, the bill aims to create a more equitable and thriving agricultural industry for all.

Congressional Summary of HR 2638

Women in Agriculture Act

This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish the position of Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison within USDA.

Among other things, the liaison must advocate on behalf of women who are farmers and ranchers in interactions with USDA employees and promote the advancement of women in USDA leadership roles. The liaison may also enter into a contract or cooperative agreement to conduct various research, training, and other activities with respect to women who are farmers and ranchers.

The liaison must submit an annual report to Congress on USDA grants, loans, loan guarantees, and cost-share programs for woman-owned agriculture operations.

In addition, the bill expands the USDA high-priority research and extension areas to authorize grants for developing and making widely available agriculture equipment and machinery that is ergonomically designed for use by women.

Further, USDA must give priority to certain loans or grants to address the availability, quality, or cost of childcare in an agricultural or rural community.

Current Status of Bill HR 2638

Bill HR 2638 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since April 3, 2025. Bill HR 2638 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on April 3, 2025. Bill HR 2638's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology. as of April 18, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2638

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

Democrat Cosponsors

Republican Cosponsors

Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2638

Primary Policy Focus

Agriculture and Food

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2638

To amend the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 to establish the position of Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison, and for other purposes.