This bill allocates $14,903,700 for the House Committee on Agriculture's expenses during the 119th Congress, with spending limits for each session and voucher requirements for payments. Funds must be spent in accordance with the regulations set by the House Administration Committee.
Glenn Thompson
Representative
PA-15
This bill allocates $14,903,700 for the Committee on Agriculture's expenses in the 119th Congress, covering staff salaries and other necessary costs. The funds are divided across two sessions, with spending capped for each. Payments must be made through vouchers approved by the Chairman and the Committee on House Administration, adhering to their regulations. All expenditures must comply with the rules established by the House Administration Committee.
House Ag Committee Gets $14.9M Budget for 119th Congress: Spending Caps Set for 2025 and 2026
H.Res. ___ greenlights nearly $15 million in funding for the House Committee on Agriculture for the 119th Congress, laying out the financial groundwork for the committee's operations over the next couple of years. This isn't about new policies, but rather keeping the lights on and the staff paid so the committee can do its job.
Cash Flow Breakdown
The resolution breaks down the funding into two main chunks: $7,231,375 is available from January 3, 2025, to January 3, 2026, and $7,672,325 is set aside for January 3, 2026, to January 3, 2027 (SEC. 2). Think of it like budgeting for a two-year project – you know the total cost, but you're allocating the money in stages. This allows for adjustments based on how things are going.
Spending the Money: Vouchers and Rules
To actually spend this money, the Committee on Agriculture needs to use vouchers. These vouchers require the signature of the Chairman and the green light from the Committee on House Administration (SEC. 3). It's like getting a purchase order approved – a system of checks and balances to make sure the money is spent appropriately. Every dollar spent has to follow the rules set by the House Administration Committee (SEC. 4). This is standard procedure to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of funds.
Real-World Impact: Keeping the Wheels Turning
While this bill doesn't create any flashy new programs, it's essential for the basic functioning of the Committee on Agriculture. This funding pays for things like staff salaries, research, and other operational expenses. Without this, the committee – which oversees crucial areas like farming, food programs, and rural development – wouldn't be able to operate. It's like keeping the engine oiled in a car; it's not glamorous, but it's absolutely necessary for the vehicle to run. While there is a potential for overspending, the voucher system is in place. It is crucial that these vouchers and expenditures are scrutinized closely.