Rep. Barry Moore Introduces Bill to Modernize National Agriculture Statistics Service
Bipartisan bill would establish Commission to modernize NASS accuracy and efficiency
Representatives Barry Moore (R-AL) and Don Davis (D-NC) have introduced bipartisan legislation to modernize the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). The proposed bill will establish a commission dedicated to improving the accuracy and efficiency of NASS reporting, benefiting farmers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
The National Agricultural Statistics Service provides crucial data that informs a wide range of decisions impacting the agricultural sector. Producers, insurance adjusters, commodity traders, federal agencies, and policymakers all rely on these statistics for strategic planning and operational decision-making. However, concerns about survey fatigue and declining response rates have prompted calls for reform.
“Data provided by the National Agricultural Statistics Service is critical to help producers and stakeholders make informed decisions,” said Rep. Moore. “Establishing a commission to modernize NASS’ function will help the Department of Agriculture improve data reporting, increase producer response rates, and reduce survey fatigue among producers.”
Rep. Davis echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of accurate data for agricultural communities. “Producers across eastern North Carolina rely on data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service to improve their practices and make educated decisions for their farms,” he stated. “The commission will provide complete and thoughtful recommendations on ways to modernize, which will provide USDA and our producers with more accurate data and a more engaging process.”
Under the proposed legislation, the commission will:
- Work alongside Congress, the Executive Branch, and stakeholders to enhance the accuracy of reported statistics, increase producer participation, and minimize survey fatigue.
- Be composed of five agency representatives and six bipartisan appointees selected by the House and Senate Agriculture Committees.
- Submit a comprehensive report within two years of enactment, detailing administrative, regulatory, and legislative recommendations for modernizing NASS.
The legislation has garnered broad support from key agricultural organizations, including the Alabama Farmers Federation, Alabama Peanut Producers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, Auburn University College of Agriculture, Farm Credit Council, Georgia Blueberry Commission, Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, National Pecan Federation, National Sorghum Growers, National Watermelon Association, U.S. Peanut Federation, and the Vidalia Onion Business Council.
As agriculture continues to evolve, this initiative represents a crucial step toward ensuring that farmers and industry leaders have access to reliable, up-to-date data. Lawmakers hope that by modernizing NASS, the bill will strengthen the agricultural sector and enhance decision-making processes nationwide.
