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A bill to amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to modify the delivery of technical assistance, and for other purposes.
1/22/2025, 11:56 AM
Summary of Bill S 156
Specifically, the bill includes provisions that would streamline the process for farmers and ranchers to access technical assistance, making it easier for them to receive the support they need. Additionally, the bill aims to enhance the effectiveness of technical assistance programs by ensuring that they are tailored to the specific needs of individual farmers and ranchers.
In addition to these changes, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to food security. While the exact details of these additional purposes are not specified in the summary, it can be inferred that they are intended to further support the overall goal of ensuring food security for all Americans. Overall, Bill 119 s 156 represents a bipartisan effort to improve the delivery of technical assistance under the Food Security Act of 1985. By making it easier for farmers and ranchers to access the support they need, the bill aims to strengthen food security and support the agricultural industry in the United States.
Congressional Summary of S 156
Increased TSP Access Act of 2025
This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to modify the certification process for Technical Service Providers (TSPs) at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) by establishing an approval process for nonfederal certifying entities and a streamlined certification process for TSPs that hold certain specialty certifications.
As background, TSPs are third-party service providers, such as private businesses, Indian tribes, and nonprofit organizations, that work on behalf of customers to offer planning, design, and implementation services that meet NRCS criteria.
The bill specifies that USDA must ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, third-party providers with expertise in the technical aspects of conservation practice design, implementation, and evaluation are eligible to become approved TSPs.
USDA must provide a streamlined certification process for TSPs who hold appropriate specialty certifications (e.g., certified crop advisors).
In determining the eligibility of a nonfederal certifying entity, USDA must consider the ability, experience, expertise, and history of the entity. USDA must decide whether to approve an application submitted by a nonfederal certifying entity to certify TSPs within a specified time period.
USDA must also review a TSP's certification by a nonfederal certifying entity within a specified time period. If the certification is satisfactory, USDA must include the TSP on a USDA-maintained registry of certified TSPs.
The bill also specifies that TSPs must be paid at rates equivalent to technical assistance provided by USDA.
Further, USDA must provide accessible public information on TSPs, including information on funding, certification results, and utilization rates.
