Bill > HR5138

This bill, known as the Agriculture Skills Preparation for Industry Recruitment Efforts (ASPIRE) Act, aims to establish grants for agriculture workforce training programs at various educational institutions. The bill authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, to award grants to eligible institutions including land-grant universities, community colleges, and technical schools. These grants will support the development of agriculture workforce training programs that involve collaboration with industry partners such as agriculture companies, apprenticeship programs, and nonprofit organizations. The training programs must include components like internships, apprenticeships, experience-based curricula, and educational workshops to promote technical skills. The primary goals of these grants are to promote growth in the agriculture industry, enhance its competitiveness, and improve worker training and retention. Grant recipients must dedicate at least 5% of their funds to recruitment efforts and professional development sessions for faculty to prepare students for employment in agriculture. The bill requires implementation of these grant provisions by January 31, 2026, and expands existing agricultural workforce development initiatives by creating a structured approach to connecting educational institutions with industry partners.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5138/all-info