H.R.1207 - To transfer the functions, duties, responsibilities, assets, liabilities, orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, grants, loans, contracts, agreements, certificates, licenses, and privileges of the United States Agency for International Development relating to implementing and administering the Food for Peace Act to the Department of Agriculture. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1207 proposes transferring the functions, duties, and responsibilities of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) related to the Food for Peace Act to the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This includes assets, liabilities, orders, regulations, permits, grants, loans, contracts, agreements, certificates, licenses, and privileges. The bill aims to consolidate food aid administration under a single department.
The Secretary of Agriculture would assume authority over the Food for Peace Act programs, with some exceptions, such as the Famine Early Warning Systems Network. The Secretary of Agriculture would also be required to consult with the Secretary of State regarding Title II of the Food for Peace Act.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committees on Foreign Affairs and Agriculture.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.1207 would centralize the administration of the Food for Peace Act within the Department of Agriculture. This could lead to streamlined processes and potentially more efficient use of resources.
However, it could also disrupt existing relationships and expertise within USAID. The shift in responsibilities may require significant adjustments within both agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for streamlined administration and reduced bureaucratic overlap.
- Enhanced coordination between domestic agricultural policies and international food aid programs.
- Possible improvements in the efficiency of resource allocation for food aid.
- Greater accountability through consolidation of responsibilities within a single department.
- Continued operation of the Famine Early Warning Systems Network to mitigate food insecurity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential disruption of existing programs and relationships within USAID.
- Risk of losing specialized expertise related to international development.
- Possible delays or inefficiencies during the transition period.
- Concerns about the USDA's capacity to effectively manage international food aid programs.
- Potential for reduced focus on the broader development goals that USAID considers.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8, which includes the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out these powers. The transfer of functions from one agency to another falls within the scope of Congress's legislative authority to organize and manage the executive branch. There are no apparent violations of individual rights or liberties as defined in the Bill of Rights.
However, the Necessary and Proper Clause could be invoked to justify the transfer as facilitating the execution of Congress's enumerated powers related to foreign commerce and general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional limitations or protections.
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).