# The AG VETS Act: Helping Veterans Get Into Farming and Ranching

This bill creates a new government program designed to help military veterans start or improve farming and ranching operations. The U.S. Department of Agriculture would set up a competitive grant program where various organizations can apply for federal money to provide training and education specifically aimed at getting veterans into agriculture. Think of it as a targeted support system to help people transitioning from military service find opportunities in farming and ranching.

The grants would go to a wide range of organizations that could deliver this training, including universities with agriculture programs, state agriculture departments, nonprofits, and community groups. These organizations would use the money to teach veterans about running a farm or ranch as a business, develop training materials tailored to agricultural operations, and offer hands-on learning experiences like workshops and field training. The bill is flexible about what counts as helpful training, allowing the Agriculture Secretary to approve other creative approaches that help veterans gain agricultural knowledge and skills.

To receive a grant, organizations would need to match the federal money dollar-for-dollar with their own funds, ensuring they're genuinely invested in the program. The bill would authorize $5 million per year from 2025 through 2029 for this initiative. In practical terms, this means veterans interested in farming or ranching would have access to specialized education and training programs designed for their unique background, potentially making it easier for them to transition into agricultural careers. The program recognizes that veterans bring valuable skills and discipline to farming but may need specific business and technical training to succeed in this new field.

AG VETS Act

Van Orden, Derrick

Agriculture Grants for Veterans Education and Training Services Act or the AG VETS ActThis bill directs the Department of Agriculture to provide competitive grants to eligible entities for the purpose of establishing and enhancing farming and ranching opportunities for veterans through education and training services.Entities eligible for the grants include cooperative extension services, land-grant colleges and universities, non-land-grant colleges of agriculture, state departments of agriculture, and nonprofit organizations.