H.R. 5468 — Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2025

This section establishes a competitive grant program under the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 for capacity building at eligible entities—defined as junior or community colleges (as defined in section 312 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, 20 U.S.C. 1058) supporting agriculture advancement or consortia of 2-year public colleges doing the same—to maintain and expand workforce training, education, research, and outreach in agriculture and related disciplines, giving priority to entities coordinating with local agriculture operators for experiential training. Grant funds may be used (1) to compete for other Federal and non-Federal funds addressing agriculture priorities; (2) to offer programming on agricultural jobs, including farm business management subjects such as accounting, paralegal studies, and finance; (3) to disseminate related information; (4) to leverage matching funds for community participation; and (5) for equipment and infrastructure acquisitions (excluding building alterations, repairs, renovations, or construction), faculty development, and apprenticeships or work-based learning. Eligible entities may also apply for designation and funding as centers of excellence for agriculture advancement to demonstrate best practices and provide regional or national leadership. Not later than three years after enactment, the Secretary of Agriculture must evaluate the program and report to specified agriculture and appropriations committees of Congress. The section authorizes $20 million annually for FY2026 through FY2031.