Bill > S2274

This bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a nonprofit corporation called the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, which will not be a part of the U.S. government but will operate as a tax-exempt entity. The Foundation's primary goals are to advance agricultural research that addresses significant national and international issues, such as plant and animal health, food safety, renewable energy, and rural economies, and to encourage collaboration among researchers from government, universities, industry, and non-profit organizations. To achieve these aims, the Foundation will award grants, enter into agreements with scientists and entities, identify and coordinate federal research programs, pinpoint emerging research needs, facilitate the sharing of research findings, and promote the development of future agricultural scientists. The Foundation will be overseen by a Board of Directors composed of both ex-officio members (including the Secretary of Agriculture and heads of relevant USDA agencies and the National Science Foundation) and appointed members with expertise in agricultural research and diverse agricultural sectors, selected from lists provided by the National Academy of Sciences and industry. The Board will establish bylaws, set priorities, and oversee the Foundation's operations, including hiring an Executive Director. The Foundation will be responsible for its own administration, including fundraising, managing assets, and entering into contracts, and will be subject to annual audits and public reporting requirements, with the U.S. government not being liable for its debts or obligations.