ACE Agriculture Act of 2026

This legislation, titled the Advancing Cutting Edge Agriculture Act of 2026, aims to reauthorize and significantly enhance the Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AGARDA). A key provision is the removal of AGARDA's pilot program designation, establishing it as a permanent and integral part of the Department of Agriculture's research efforts. This change signifies a long-term commitment to fostering innovation in the agricultural sector. The bill substantially broadens AGARDA's research focus to address critical challenges facing modern agriculture. New areas of emphasis include water conservation technologies , the reduction and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from the agriculture sector, and bolstering resilience to extreme weather, drought, infectious diseases, and various plant and animal pathogens and pests. Furthermore, the bill increases AGARDA's authorized funding to $100,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2031 and allows for the use of other unobligated funds, ensuring robust financial support for its expanded mission. It also clarifies the Director's collaboration with the Chief Scientist and outlines personnel matters to strengthen the program's operational capacity.