Bill > HR6018

This bill, known as the "Bringing Assistance for Rural Needs During Shutdowns Act," aims to ensure that Farm Services Agency (FSA) offices remain operational during a government shutdown. Specifically, the legislation would classify FSA services as essential services under federal law, which means that during a government shutdown, FSA officers and employees would be permitted to continue working. This is significant because during past government shutdowns, many federal agencies have been required to furlough or stop non-essential personnel, which can disrupt critical services. By deeming FSA services as essential, the bill would protect the agency's ability to continue providing support to rural communities and agricultural stakeholders, even when other parts of the government are temporarily closed. The bill amends section 1342 of title 31 of the United States Code to explicitly state that FSA services involve emergencies involving the safety of human life or the protection of property, thus justifying their continued operation during a shutdown.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6018/all-info