H.R. 5150: Protecting Agricultural Borrower Information Act

This bill, titled the Protecting Agricultural Borrower Information Act, aims to enhance privacy protections for individuals who receive loans and payments through the Farm Service Agency (FSA). Here are the key points of what the bill proposes:

1. Unlawful Disclosure of Information

The bill makes it illegal for the Secretary of the Farm Service Agency or any of its employees to share personal information provided by loan applicants or recipients. This includes disclosure to:

• Special government employees: Individuals defined under U.S. law who work in a governmental capacity but are not permanent employees.
• Government employees detailed to the Farm Service Agency: Those employees who are temporarily assigned to the FSA from other government agencies.

2. Exceptions to Disclosure

There are specific circumstances under which information can still be shared. These exceptions include:

• Statistical or Aggregate Form: If the information is anonymized and presented in a way that does not allow for the identification of any individual or entity.
• Consent of the Provider: If the individual whose information is being shared gives explicit permission, provided that this consent is not a precondition for receiving benefits or participating in FSA programs.

3. Penalties for Violations

The bill outlines penalties for violations of the privacy protections established. Individuals who knowingly disclose protected information in violation of the law can face:

• A fine of up to $10,000.
• Imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year.
• Or both a fine and imprisonment.

4. Legislative Process

The bill was introduced to the House of Representatives on September 4, 2025, by Rep. McClain Delaney and has been referred to the Committee on Agriculture for further consideration.

Relevant Companies

None found