Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.1618 - Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.1618, the Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act, directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to review its rules regarding satellite services and develop recommendations for changes that would promote precision agriculture. The FCC is required to consult with the Task Force for Reviewing the Connectivity and Technology Needs of Precision Agriculture in the United States. A report on the review's findings and recommendations must be submitted to the relevant committees in the House and Senate within 15 months of the Act's enactment.

Expected Effects

The bill aims to improve connectivity for precision agriculture by prompting the FCC to adapt its regulations. This could lead to increased efficiency and productivity in the agricultural sector through better use of satellite technology. Ultimately, the bill seeks to modernize farming practices by leveraging advancements in satellite communications.

Potential Benefits

  • Enhanced agricultural productivity through improved connectivity.
  • Potential for cost savings for farmers by optimizing resource use.
  • Increased adoption of precision agriculture techniques.
  • Support for rural economies by improving access to technology.
  • Better data collection and analysis for agricultural decision-making.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential costs associated with implementing new FCC regulations.
  • Possible delays in the FCC review and recommendation process.
  • Uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of the rule changes.
  • Risk that the changes may not adequately address the needs of all farmers.
  • Limited scope, focusing solely on satellite connectivity and potentially overlooking other barriers to precision agriculture adoption.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By promoting precision agriculture through satellite connectivity, the bill aims to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the agricultural sector, which has significant implications for interstate commerce. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).