Agriculture and National Security Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Bice, Stephanie I. [R-OK-5]
- Committees
- Agriculture Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 20, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to strengthen the integration of national security considerations into the USDA's mission by enhancing leadership, interagency collaboration, and strategic reporting on agricultural vulnerabilities.
What it actually does
This bill, the "Agriculture and National Security Act of 2026," directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to elevate national security alongside homeland security in its operations. It mandates the appointment of a Senior Advisor for National Security within the Office of the Secretary, authorizes personnel exchanges with defense and intelligence agencies, and requires biennial reports to Congress and the National Security Council on food and agriculture vulnerabilities, especially concerning emerging technologies and foreign influence.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the bill is a critical step to safeguard the nation's food supply and agricultural infrastructure from evolving national security threats, including foreign adversaries and emerging technologies. They contend that elevating national security within USDA and improving interagency information sharing will proactively identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they become crises, ensuring food security and economic stability.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that the bill could lead to an over-securitization of the agricultural sector, potentially burdening farmers and agricultural businesses with new regulations or data requirements without clear benefits. They might also raise concerns about the potential for mission creep within USDA, diverting resources from its core functions of supporting agriculture and rural development.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick review by interested parties.
Section 3(a)
Elevation of National Security within USDA
This provision mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture prioritize national security in addition to homeland security within the Department. It specifically requires increasing the number of USDA staff with security clearances and access to classified systems and networks, integrating national security concerns more deeply into the department's core functions.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this is essential to recognize food and agriculture as critical national security assets, ensuring the sector is protected from sophisticated threats. Increasing cleared personnel will facilitate better intelligence integration and proactive defense.
Critics contend
Some might argue that this could lead to an unnecessary expansion of the USDA's security apparatus, potentially diverting resources from traditional agricultural support programs or creating bureaucratic hurdles for staff.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between maintaining USDA's traditional focus on agricultural support and integrating a robust national security mandate, potentially requiring a reallocation of resources and a shift in departmental culture.
Section 3(b)
Creation of Senior Advisor Position
This provision requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and appoint a Senior Advisor for National Security within the Office of the Secretary within 180 days of the bill's enactment. This advisor will serve as the principal national security advisor to the Secretary, act as the primary liaison with the National Security Council, coordinate national security activities across USDA, and engage stakeholders to identify vulnerabilities.
Section 3(c)
Authorization for Interagency Detailees
This provision amends existing law to explicitly authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to send USDA personnel to, and receive personnel from, defense, national and homeland security, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies. These exchanges can occur with or without reimbursement and are intended to improve information sharing, vulnerability identification, and risk mitigation related to food and agriculture.
Section 3(d)
Mandate for Biennial National Security Reports
This provision requires the Secretary of Agriculture to submit a comprehensive report to Congress and the National Security Council every two years, with the first due within 180 days of enactment. These reports must assess gaps and limitations in national security efforts related to food and agriculture, covering areas like foreign influence, data control, land acquisition, supply chain dependencies, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. The reports must also detail actions taken, policy recommendations, and required resources.