Bill > HR7153

This bill, titled the "Agriculture and National Security Act of 2026," aims to strengthen the connection between the Department of Agriculture and national security agencies by recognizing food and agriculture as critical to national security. It mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize national security alongside homeland security within the Department, including increasing staff with security clearances and access to classified systems. A new position, the Senior Advisor for National Security, will be established within the Secretary's office to advise on national security matters, serve as the primary liaison with the National Security Council and other federal agencies, coordinate national security activities across the Department, and communicate with stakeholders to identify vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies. The bill also amends existing law to allow the Secretary to detail personnel to and accept personnel from defense, national and homeland security, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies to improve information sharing and risk mitigation related to food and agriculture. Furthermore, the Secretary will be required to submit biennial reports to Congress and the National Security Council assessing national security gaps and limitations in the food and agriculture sector, detailing actions taken to address them, proposing policy recommendations, and outlining necessary resources for the Department.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7153/all-info