H.R. 3991: Research for Healthy Soils Act

This bill, titled the "Research for Healthy Soils Act," proposes amendments to the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990. The key focus of the bill is to enhance research and extension activities related to microplastics and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found on farmland.

Research Funding and Goals

The bill allows for research and extension grants aimed at exploring the agricultural effects of microplastics and PFAS. Specifically, the proposed research would include:

• Data Collection: Conducting surveys to measure the concentration, particle size, and chemical composition of microplastics and PFAS in biosolids that are applied to farmland.
• Technology Development: Developing or analyzing techniques, such as wastewater treatment and composting, to filter or completely break down these substances from biosolids intended for agricultural use.
• Impact Analysis: Examining how these substances affect agricultural crops and soil health, particularly regarding their uptake by crops and livestock.
• Wastewater Research: Conducting studies to understand how wastewater processing influences the presence and concentration of microplastics and PFAS.
• Environmental Fate Studies: Researching how long these substances remain in farmland, how they move through the soil, and their transport mechanisms.
• Remediation Research: Investigating methods for cleaning up soil and water systems that have been contaminated with microplastics and PFAS.

Reauthorization of Initiatives

The bill also includes a provision to extend the duration of existing high-priority research and extension initiatives from 2023 to 2031. This extension allows for continuity in ongoing research efforts related to the agricultural sector and environmental health.

Impact on Agricultural Practices

The overall goal of this legislation is to advance the understanding of how microplastics and PFAS affect agricultural practices, crop health, and soil quality. The findings from the proposed research can inform best practices and policies to mitigate any negative impacts these substances may have in agricultural settings.

Relevant Companies

None found.