Boosting US-Israel Agricultural Research and Funding Global Food Security Programs.
This law authorizes increased funding for joint US-Israel agricultural research, aiming to spur innovation in food production and potentially benefit US consumers through new technologies. It also establishes a new foreign aid program focused on combating food shortages in developing nations, particularly in Africa, by promoting sustainable, local food procurement. This represents an investment in agricultural innovation and global stability.
Key points
Increases annual funding ($8 million) for the US-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD), expanding cooperation to include Arab states normalizing relations with Israel.
Establishes a new $10 million annual grant program to address food shortages in developing countries, prioritizing field projects located in Africa that procure local commodities.
The new food aid program emphasizes sustainable, self-sufficient food ecosystems and requires safeguards to prevent disruption of local farmers and markets.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4551
Sponsor: Sen. Hoeven, John [R-ND]
Process start date: 2024-06-13