Bill > S1150

This bill amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to improve the delivery of technical assistance for conservation efforts by establishing a more comprehensive and flexible system for certifying third-party providers (TPPs). The bill creates a new process for non-Federal entities to become approved certifying bodies for TPPs, with the goal of increasing the capacity of technical service providers across agricultural, conservation, and environmental fields. Key provisions include establishing a 180-day timeline for creating a certification process, setting criteria for non-Federal entities to become approved certifying bodies, and implementing a streamlined certification route for providers with existing specialized certifications (such as certified crop advisors or professional engineers). The bill also mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture review certification requirements annually, establish fair payment rates for technical services, and provide public transparency about TPP certifications, including the number of providers certified and the estimated staff hours saved through their work. Additionally, the bill aims to broaden the pool of potential technical service providers by explicitly including private sector entities, agricultural retailers, cooperatives, and professional societies in the certification process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1150/all-info