Analysis of FY2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill: Impact on Sustainable Agriculture Programs

After more than 162 days into the start of Fiscal Year 2024, Congress has finally approved the final FY2024 Agriculture Appropriations bill. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 funds the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through September 30, 2024. The bill provides $26.23 billion in funding, roughly $750 million above the FY2023 level.

However, the appropriations process was particularly challenging this year due to fiscal constraints and a wide gap between the Senate and House proposals. Despite the difficulties, the final bill includes some bright spots alongside painful cuts. Notably, harmful policy riders were rejected, ensuring fair competition and USDA’s ability to respond to emergent agricultural needs.

One area of disappointment is the funding for conservation programs. The bill provides only $773,495,000 for Conservation Technical Assistance, a 3% decrease from FY2023. This disinvestment in on-farm conservation is concerning as farmers face challenges in accessing NRCS programs. Additionally, the Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative received only $10 million, a 28.6% cut from FY2023.

In terms of research, programs supporting sustainable and organic agriculture saw cuts in funding. The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program was cut by $2 million, while the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative saw a $9.8 million decrease. However, the Organic Transitions Program received level funding of $7.5 million.

Local and regional food systems also faced challenges, with cuts to programs like the Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production. Rural development programs, such as the Rural Business Development Grants and Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program, saw reductions in funding.

Despite some positive aspects of the bill, many priority programs for sustainable agriculture were cut, reflecting the challenges of the appropriations process in FY2024. As the FY2025 appropriations process begins, efforts will be made to build back and increase funding for programs important to sustainable agriculture.

Overall, the FY2024 Agriculture Appropriations bill highlights the complexities and challenges of funding critical agricultural programs, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and support for sustainable agriculture initiatives.