Bill > S1800

This bill, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2016, makes appropriations for various government programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2016, and includes several provisions that modify how funds can be used and managed. Key provisions include allowing the Department of Agriculture to purchase a limited number of new vehicles for safety and cost-saving purposes, permitting the transfer of unobligated funds to a Working Capital Fund for essential services with Congressional approval, and stipulating that appropriations generally remain available only for the current fiscal year unless otherwise specified. The bill also sets limits on indirect cost rates for certain grants, clarifies the availability of funds for loan programs, and imposes restrictions on the acquisition of new information technology systems without proper approvals. Furthermore, it addresses specific program funding levels, such as for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Biomass Crop Assistance Program, and includes provisions related to the implementation of certain food labeling rules and dietary guidelines, as well as rules regarding the importation of beef from Argentina and Brazil, and the inspection of horses. A significant section outlines strict requirements for reprogramming or transferring funds, mandating prior notification and approval from Congressional appropriations committees for various actions, including creating new programs, eliminating existing ones, or reorganizing offices. Finally, the bill allows for exemptions from whole grain requirements in school lunch programs under certain hardship conditions and delays the implementation of reduced sodium levels in school meals until further scientific evidence is established.