((a)) ** In general** Subject to subsection (b), the Secretary of Agriculture shall permanently debar an individual, organization, corporation, or other entity convicted of a felony for knowingly defrauding the United States in connection with any program administered by the Department of Agriculture from any subsequent participation in Department of Agriculture programs.
((b)) ** Exceptions**
((1)) ** Secretary determination** The Secretary may reduce a debarment under subsection (a) to a period of not less than 10 years if the Secretary considers it appropriate.
((2)) ** Food assistance** A debarment under subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to participation in domestic food assistance programs (as defined by the Secretary).