Sponsors (17)
The bill seeks to expand agritourism to boost rural economies, farmer earnings, and education, but it provides no new funding and creates administrative and liability risks that could limit impact or divert resources unless appropriations and clear guidance accompany implementation.
Rural communities and small businesses (including farm-based enterprises) would attract more visitors and local spending as USDA promotes agritourism across states, boosting local economic activity.
Farmers—especially small and family-run operations—and agritourism entrepreneurs would be able to diversify and grow revenue through direct sales, hospitality offerings, and by receiving mentorship, technical assistance, and marketing support.
Children, families, and farmers would gain educational benefits as on‑farm tours and updated farm enterprise programs teach financial literacy, business planning, marketing, and hands‑on agricultural learning.
The bill authorizes USDA promotion and a new office/position but does not provide new funding, so initiatives may be largely symbolic or ineffective unless Congress appropriates money.
Creating a new federal office and senior position without explicit appropriations could increase administrative costs or force USDA to reallocate existing program funds, reducing resources for other rural or agricultural programs.
Expanding agritourism promotion could expose farms, visitors, and localities to increased liability, zoning, and safety challenges; without clear guidance or support, these regulatory and safety risks may impose costs on farmers and local governments.
Based on analysis of 3 sections of legislative text.
Creates an Office of Agritourism inside the U.S. Department of Agriculture led by a senior Director to promote, coordinate, and support agritourism businesses and activities across the States, District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. The Office would advise USDA, update programs to reflect agritourism best practices, conduct outreach and technical assistance, build partnerships and networks, and coordinate with other federal agencies. The bill contains declarations about the benefits of agritourism but does not appropriate funds or set implementation deadlines.
Introduced May 15, 2025 by Suhas Subramanyam · Last progress May 15, 2025