H.R. 1326: DOE and USDA Interagency Research Act

This bill, known as the DOE and USDA Interagency Research Act, aims to enhance collaboration between the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) by promoting joint research and development activities. Here’s an overview of its key components:

Collaborative Research Activities

The Secretaries of Energy and Agriculture are mandated to carry out collaborative research focused on the missions and priorities of both departments. This involves:

• Establishing a memorandum of understanding or other agreements to coordinate these activities.
• Using a competitive, merit-reviewed process for research proposals from various entities, including federal agencies, national laboratories, and educational institutions.

Areas of Research Focus

The collaborative research will cover various focus areas, including:

• Modeling and simulation: Utilizing machine learning and data analytics to improve agricultural and energy systems.
• Agricultural sciences: Advancing crop science, pest control, and biological engineering.
• Energy-water nexus: Studying the interrelationship between natural resources and energy needs.
• Biomass and biofuels: Developing sustainable biological products and fuels.
• Diverse feedstocks: Researching sustainable fuels for aviation and naval applications.
• Invasive species management: Collaborating with federal committees to manage noxious species.
• Grid security: Focusing on improving the security and modernization of energy grids.
• Rural technology development: Enhancing agricultural technologies and infrastructure in rural areas.

Data and Information Sharing

The bill aims to promote collaboration and information sharing among various stakeholders, including federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and industry partners. Key points include:

• Developing methods for managing large data sets related to agriculture and the environment.
• Ensuring secure access to data that complies with federal regulations.

Research Infrastructure and Workforce Development

The Secretaries are authorized to support infrastructure and workforce development needed for effective research. This includes:

• Improving operational efficiency in agriculture.
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in agricultural processes.

Agreements and Collaboration

The bill provides authority to create reimbursable agreements to maximize research effectiveness and allow collaboration with other federal agencies where necessary.

Reporting Requirements

Within two years of the bill's enactment, the Secretaries must submit a report detailing:

• Interagency coordination efforts.
• Opportunities for expanding technical capabilities.
• Achievements in collaborative research.
• Future opportunities for collaboration.

Research Security Compliance

All activities under this bill must align with the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act, emphasizing the importance of research security.

Relevant Companies

None found