FARM SAFE Act
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This bill would require the USDA to continue agricultural disaster assistance programs and retain necessary staff during federal shutdowns.
What it does
This bill would require the Department of Agriculture to continue operating agricultural disaster assistance programs during a government shutdown. It proposes that employees necessary for these programs be classified as excepted personnel required to work during a lapse in appropriations and protects those employees from removal under a reduction in force.
Who is affected
This bill directly affects Department of Agriculture (USDA) employees responsible for administering agricultural disaster assistance programs, designating them as excepted employees who must work during government shutdowns. It also impacts individuals and entities eligible for these programs by ensuring that disaster assistance activities continue during a lapse in federal appropriations. Additionally, the legislation protects the specified USDA personnel from being removed through a reduction in force during such periods.
Key provisions
- Mandatory continuation of disaster assistance during shutdowns. Requires the Department of Agriculture to maintain operations and activities related to agricultural disaster assistance programs even during a lapse in federal appropriations.
- Classification of essential personnel. Designates any Department of Agriculture employee necessary for administering disaster assistance programs as an excepted employee required to work during a government shutdown.
- Protection against personnel reductions. Prohibits the removal of employees necessary for agricultural disaster assistance programs under a reduction in force during a funding lapse.
Fiscal impact
Not applicable: No CBO cost estimate available
Effective dates
Not applicable: Official Summary does not address effective dates
Relationship to existing law
The bill modifies the administration of existing Department of Agriculture disaster assistance programs by requiring their continued operation during government shutdowns and establishing specific labor protections for the employees who manage them.
Stated purpose
The bill aims to ensure the continuity of agricultural disaster assistance programs by requiring the Department of Agriculture to maintain operations and retain necessary personnel during government shutdowns or other lapses in federal appropriations.