HARVEST Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Figures, Shomari [D-AL-2]
- Committees
- Agriculture Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 15, 2026
Bottom line
The HARVEST Act mandates a study by the USDA to explore how historically Black land-grant institutions can better support the transfer of agricultural land, especially heirs property, to new farmers.
What it actually does
This bill, known as the HARVEST Act, directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study and submit a report to Congress by September 30, 2026. The study will focus on identifying ways to enhance opportunities for 1890 Institutions to offer educational programs and technical assistance. These programs and assistance are intended to address issues related to the transfer of agricultural land and assets, including 'heirs property,' to the next generation of farmers and ranchers.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is a crucial step towards addressing systemic barriers faced by underserved farmers, particularly those dealing with heirs property issues. They contend that 1890 Institutions are uniquely positioned to provide culturally competent and effective assistance, and a study will illuminate the best strategies to leverage these institutions to ensure equitable land transfer and preserve generational wealth in agricultural communities.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the intent is good, directing a study is a minimal action that delays substantive solutions. They might contend that existing programs or direct funding for 1890 Institutions could be more immediately impactful, and that another study might simply reiterate known challenges without providing new actionable insights or dedicated resources.
The bill is very short and can be read quickly, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2(a)
Study on Technical Assistance for Agricultural Land Transfer
This provision directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study by September 30, 2026. The study's purpose is to find ways to increase opportunities for 1890 Institutions to provide educational programs and technical assistance. This assistance will help with the transfer of agricultural land and assets, including 'heirs property,' to the next generation of farmers and ranchers. A report summarizing the findings must be submitted to Congress.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that this study is essential for understanding how to best empower 1890 Institutions, which have a proven track record of serving minority and underserved agricultural communities, to address the critical issue of land transfer and heirs property. They believe it will lead to more effective, targeted support for farmers and ranchers.
Critics contend
Opponents might argue that a study is an insufficient response to an urgent problem, suggesting that direct funding or program implementation would be more effective than further research. They might also question the novelty of the findings, suggesting that many of these challenges are already well-documented.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the need for informed policy with the urgency of the problem. While a study provides a data-driven approach, it inherently delays direct action. The tension lies between thorough research and immediate intervention.
This subsection defines 'heirs property' as real property held in tenancy in common that meets specific criteria: no recorded agreement binding all co-tenants on partition, one or more co-tenants acquired title from a relative, and at least 20 percent of interests are held by relatives, or by an individual who acquired title from a relative, or 20 percent of co-tenants are relatives.
Section 2(b)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to provide precise definitions for key terms used in the bill, ensuring clarity and limiting the scope of the study to a specific type of property issue.
Case for: Supporters would argue that a clear and specific definition of 'heirs property' is crucial for the study to be effective and focused. It ensures that the USDA's efforts and subsequent recommendations target the precise legal and social challenges associated with this unique form of land ownership.
Case against: No specific opposition is typically raised against clear definitions, but some might argue that a narrow definition could inadvertently exclude other forms of complex land tenure issues that also hinder agricultural land transfer, potentially limiting the study's comprehensive impact.
Estimated impact: This definition will directly shape the scope and focus of the USDA study, influencing which types of land transfer challenges and which property owners will be considered.