Agricultural Cooperative Energy Savings Act of 2025
Summary
The Agricultural Cooperative Energy Savings Act of 2025 aims to expand eligibility for certain United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs. This expansion includes agricultural cooperatives with fewer than 2,500 employees. The bill amends Section 9007(c)(1)(A)(i) of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to reflect this change.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to broaden the scope of USDA programs related to energy savings. More agricultural cooperatives will now be able to access these programs. This could lead to increased investment in energy-efficient technologies and practices within the agricultural sector.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to USDA programs for smaller agricultural cooperatives.
- Potential for greater adoption of energy-efficient technologies.
- Support for rural economies through energy savings.
- Reduced energy costs for participating cooperatives.
- Possible environmental benefits from energy conservation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on existing USDA program resources.
- Possible administrative costs associated with expanding eligibility.
- Risk of inefficient allocation of resources if not properly managed.
- Limited impact if cooperatives lack the capacity to implement energy-saving measures.
- Potential for unintended consequences if the eligibility criteria are not carefully considered.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to promote the general welfare through legislation supporting agriculture and rural development. Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States, also applies.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).