The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) joined more than 50 organizations in sending a letter to congressional appropriators urging them to protect publicly funded agriculture research, especially funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s climate change research.
“Over the last several decades, publicly funded agricultural research has led to the advancement of countless innovative techniques and practices that have helped farmers across the country increase their profitability and sustainability,” the groups argued. “All farmers need access to high-quality research; and investing in research at the intersection of agriculture and climate change is critical to both short-term and long-term efforts to protect the viability of the agricultural industry.”
The letter, sent on June 9, urged the House Appropriations Committee to reject the proposed cuts to climate change programs in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bill for agriculture. On June 14, the panel voted to pass the measure with cuts to climate research.
Stay current on the latest science policy news. Subscribe to our bi-weekly AIBS Public Policy Report.