To modernize the way foreign agricultural land ownership is reported in the United States, the USDA is actively seeking public input. This initiative, led by the Farm Service Agency, aims to revise the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act Report form.
The revisions are centered on including a broader range of data, such as information on long-term lessees and the impact of foreign investment on rural communities and agricultural producers.
Contributions from the public are vital in this endeavor. Interested parties have until February 16 to submit their feedback via the Federal eRulemaking portal, docket FSA-2023-0017. All comments received will be openly accessible on www.regulations.gov, ensuring transparency in the process.
The proposed updates are a direct response to the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 (AFIDA). They seek to improve the collection of geospatial information and provide a clearer picture of the effects of foreign investments on the agricultural landscape of the U.S. By incorporating public opinions and suggestions, the USDA aims to develop an electronic submission system that will streamline the reporting process and enhance data accuracy.
This public consultation is a critical component of the USDA's strategy to ensure that the reporting system reflects the current state of agricultural land ownership. By gathering a diverse range of perspectives, the USDA hopes to build a more effective and inclusive reporting mechanism.
This will not only aid in monitoring foreign land ownership but also help in understanding its implications for American agriculture. It's a step towards fostering a more transparent and informed agricultural sector, one where public opinion shapes policy and practice.
Source : wisconsinagconnection