HARVEST Act Heirs’ Agricultural Resources, Viability, Education,...
To direct the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study on ways to increase opportunities for 1890 Institutions to conduct educational programs and provide technical assistance with respect to issues relating to the transfer of agricultural land and assets, including heirs property, to the next generation of farmers and ranchers, and for other purposes,.
This bill, HB8502, proposes to have the Secretary of Agriculture study how to help historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), known as 1890 Institutions, provide more educational programs and technical assistance for transferring agricultural land and assets to younger farmers and ranchers. The bill aims to address issues like heirs property, which refers to land passed down through generations without clear ownership.
The bill would mainly affect students, educators, and landowners at HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions, aiming to improve their ability to manage and transfer agricultural resources. By enhancing educational programs and technical support, the bill seeks to ensure a smoother transition of land and assets to the next generation of farmers and ranchers.
HB8502 was introduced on April 27, 2026, and referred to the House Committee on Agriculture on the same day. It has not yet advanced beyond this initial stage. If passed, it could lead to significant improvements in educational support for agricultural land transfer at HBCUs.
