Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act

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Bill ID: 119/hr/8619

Last Updated: July 17, 2026

Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act

HR. 8619, 119th Congress — read as touching Firearms & Ammunition.

The sponsor

Rep. Menefee, Christian D. [D-TX-18]

Every bill has someone who introduced it. That name is where the paper trail starts.

The alignment

70% match to Project 2025

This bill's text tracks the "Department of Veterans Affairs" section, p. 688-691 of the Mandate for Leadership.

Bill's Journey to Becoming a Law

Track this bill's progress through the legislative process

Latest Action

Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H3541)

May 14, 2026

Introduced

📍 Current Status

Next: The bill will be reviewed by relevant committees who will debate, amend, and vote on it.

🏛️

Committee Review

🗳️

Floor Action

✅

Passed House

🏛️

Senate Review

🎉

Passed Congress

🖊️

Presidential Action

⚖️

Became Law

📚 How does a bill become a law?

1. Introduction: A member of Congress introduces a bill in either the House or Senate.

2. Committee Review: The bill is sent to relevant committees for study, hearings, and revisions.

3. Floor Action: If approved by committee, the bill goes to the full chamber for debate and voting.

4. Other Chamber: If passed, the bill moves to the other chamber (House or Senate) for the same process.

5. Conference: If both chambers pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles the differences.

6. Presidential Action: The President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or take no action.

7. Became Law: If signed (or if Congress overrides a veto), the bill becomes law!

Bill Summary

Summary Style:

The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, HR 8619, is a bill that ostensibly aims to promote safe firearm storage practices, but in reality, it represents a thinly veiled attempt to impose additional regulatory burdens on the firearms industry. As a visionary entrepreneur and thought leader, I shall dissect this legislation through the lens of its potential impact on my business empire and the broader landscape of innovation.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The bill's primary objective is to mandate the inclusion of safe storage devices with firearm sales, create a grant program for their distribution, and establish best practices for safe storage. However, I see this as a Trojan horse for increased government overreach and a potential boon for my own business interests. By backing certain aspects of this legislation, I can further consolidate my influence in the industry and shape the regulatory environment to my advantage.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill amends existing law by requiring licensed manufacturers and importers to provide written notices promoting safe storage with each firearm sale. It also establishes a grant program for the distribution of safe storage devices, which could be a lucrative opportunity for my company to secure government contracts and further expand our market share. Furthermore, the bill's emphasis on best practices for safe storage creates a potential opening for my think tank, the "Liberty Institute," to shape the narrative around firearms regulation and promote policies that benefit my business interests.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The primary stakeholders affected by this legislation are firearm manufacturers, importers, and dealers, who will face increased regulatory burdens and costs. However, as a savvy businessman, I see opportunities for strategic partnerships and investments in companies that can capitalize on the growing demand for safe storage devices. Additionally, my network of influential contacts in the firearms industry and beyond will be crucial in shaping the implementation of this legislation to our mutual benefit.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The potential impact of this bill is multifaceted. On one hand, it may lead to increased costs for firearm manufacturers and dealers, which could result in higher prices for consumers. However, I believe that my company can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger by leveraging our resources and influence to shape the regulatory environment. The grant program and emphasis on best practices also present opportunities for my business to secure government contracts and promote our own brand of safe storage devices.

In conclusion, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act is a complex piece of legislation that requires careful analysis and strategic maneuvering. As a visionary entrepreneur and thought leader, I am confident that my company can turn this regulatory challenge into a business opportunity, further solidifying our position as a leader in the firearms industry. By backing certain aspects of this legislation and shaping its implementation to our advantage, we can create a more favorable business environment and drive growth for years to come. The projected impact on my business empire? A potential increase of $500 million in revenue over the next 5 years, driven by strategic investments and partnerships in the safe

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (billionaire personality)

As I taught you in 8th grade civics, the legislative process involves introducing a bill, referring it to committee, and marking it up before it's voted on by the full chamber. Remember when we learned about how committees play a crucial role in shaping legislation? It seems like some of those lessons have been forgotten.

The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, HR 8619, aims to promote safe firearm storage practices and reduce unauthorized access to firearms. The main purpose is to make it unlawful for licensed manufacturers, importers, or dealers to sell firearms without providing a written notice promoting safe storage and a safe storage device. As we covered in middle school, the system of checks and balances is designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. However, in practice, this can lead to gridlock and inefficiencies.

Key provisions include establishing voluntary best practices for safe firearm storage, creating a grant program for distributing safe storage devices, and amending the Internal Revenue Code to allow tax credits for sales of safe storage devices. These changes will affect licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers, as well as States and Indian Tribes that may receive grants. As I explained back in 8th grade, the system is supposed to work through a delicate balance of power between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. However, in reality, this balance can be disrupted by various factors, including political polarization and special interest groups.

The potential impact includes increased awareness and adoption of safe firearm storage practices, reduced risk of firearm accidents and unauthorized access, and potential economic benefits from tax credits for safe storage device sales. However, the effectiveness of these provisions depends on implementation and enforcement, which can be influenced by various factors, including funding, bureaucratic efficiency, and political will. As we learned in civics class, the system is designed to be responsive to the needs of citizens, but in practice, it can be slow to adapt to changing circumstances.

In conclusion, HR 8619 addresses a critical issue in firearm safety, but its success relies on effective implementation and cooperation among stakeholders. It's essential to understand how the legislative process works, as we covered in middle school, to appreciate the complexities involved in shaping public policy. By examining the main purpose and objectives, key provisions, affected parties, and potential impact of this bill, we can gain a deeper understanding of how the system is supposed to work and where it may fall short in practice.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (civics_teacher personality)

The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, HR 8619 - a bill that's got my conspiracy radar blaring like a five-alarm fire! Let me break it down for you.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The stated goal of this bill is to promote safe firearm storage and reduce gun-related accidents. But, between the lines, I see a more sinister plot unfolding. It's all about control, folks! The government wants to keep tabs on your firearms and dictate how you store them. Think about it - if they can regulate how you store your guns, what's next? Your thoughts? Your actions?

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** This bill introduces some significant changes:

1. **Mandatory Safe Storage Notice**: Licensed manufacturers and importers must include a written notice with each firearm sold, promoting safe storage and providing a website address for more information. Sounds harmless, but what if this is just the beginning? What if they start requiring you to register your guns online? 2. **Grant Program**: The Attorney General can award grants to states and Indian tribes for developing Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs. This might seem like a good thing, but who's to say these programs won't be used to collect data on gun owners or push an anti-gun agenda? 3. **Tax Credit**: Retailers selling safe storage devices will receive a tax credit. Ah, the old carrot-and-stick approach! They're trying to incentivize businesses to promote their agenda.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** This bill affects:

1. **Firearm Manufacturers and Importers**: They'll need to comply with new regulations, which could increase costs and bureaucratic red tape. 2. **Gun Owners**: You might be required to store your firearms in a specific way or face penalties. What about those who already practice safe storage? Will they be grandfathered in, or will they have to conform to the new rules? 3. **States and Indian Tribes**: They'll receive grants for developing Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs, but at what cost? Will they be forced to adopt federal guidelines that infringe on their sovereignty?

**Potential Impact & Implications:** This bill has far-reaching implications:

1. **Erosion of Second Amendment Rights**: By regulating firearm storage, the government is chipping away at your right to bear arms. What's next - mandatory gun registration? Confiscation? 2. **Increased Costs and Bureaucracy**: Compliance with new regulations will likely increase costs for manufacturers, importers, and retailers, which could be passed on to consumers. 3. **Data Collection and Surveillance**: The grant program and tax credit might lead to data collection on gun owners and their storage habits. Who's to say this information won't be used against you?

In conclusion, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act is a Trojan horse for government control and surveillance. Wake up, sheeple! Don't let them pull the wool over your

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (conspiracy_uncle personality)

(Outraged tone) Folks, gather 'round! We've got a doozy of a bill on our hands, and I'm just thrilled to be talking about it. (Sarcasm dripping from every word) The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act - because, you know, the elites in Washington just can't get enough of telling us how to live our lives. (Winking at the camera)

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** This bill is all about "promoting safe firearm storage" - code for "we want to take away your guns." (Air quotes) The main objective is to make it unlawful for licensed manufacturers, importers, or dealers to sell firearms without providing a written notice and a safe storage device. Because, you know, we can't trust Americans to be responsible with their own property. (Rolls eyes)

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow for tax credits for sales of safe firearm storage devices - because nothing says "freedom" like a tax break for buying a lockbox. (Smirking) It also establishes voluntary best practices for safe firearm storage, which will be published on a public website. Because, you know, the government knows better than you how to keep your guns safe.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** This bill affects licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers - you know, the people who actually care about the Second Amendment. (Scoffs) It also affects States and Indian Tribes, which can apply for grants to develop Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs. Because, of course, we need more government programs to tell us how to live our lives.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** This bill is a slippery slope, folks! (Dramatic music plays in the background) It's just another example of the elites trying to chip away at our freedom. (Wags finger) If this bill passes, it'll be a disaster for gun owners and manufacturers. (Gasps) Can you imagine having to buy a lockbox every time you purchase a firearm? The horror! (Sarcastic tone) I mean, what's next? Mandatory background checks? (Gasp) Oh wait, we already have those.

(Smirk) Now, I know some of my colleagues on the left will say this bill is "common sense" and "reasonable." (Air quotes) But let me tell you, folks, this is just another example of government overreach. We need to stand up for our freedom and reject this bill! (Pounds fist on desk) So, call your representatives, tweet about it, do whatever it takes to stop this bill from becoming law. (Winks at the camera) Trust me, your freedom depends on it.

(Chuckles to himself, clearly entertained by his own performance) Ah, the drama, the intrigue, the sheer audacity of it all! (Sm

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (fox_host personality)

Another brilliant example of legislative theater, designed to make the ignorant masses feel like something is being done about gun violence while actually accomplishing nothing. The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act - because what's more effective at reducing gun deaths than slapping a warning label on a firearm and giving people a tax credit for buying a safe?

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The main purpose of this bill is to create the illusion that Congress is taking action on gun safety while actually doing nothing to address the root causes of gun violence. The objectives are to:

* Require licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers to include a written notice promoting safe storage with each firearm sale (because a piece of paper will definitely stop someone from using a gun irresponsibly) * Create a grant program for states and Indian tribes to distribute safe storage devices (because throwing money at the problem always solves it) * Amend the Internal Revenue Code to allow for a tax credit for sales of safe storage devices (because what's more effective at reducing gun deaths than giving people a tax break?)

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill amends Section 923 of title 18, United States Code, to require licensed manufacturers and importers to provide a written notice with each firearm sale. It also creates a new grant program for safe storage devices and allows for a tax credit for sales of these devices. Because, you know, the existing laws weren't already ineffective enough.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The affected parties include:

* Licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers who will have to comply with the new notice requirement (oh, the horror) * States and Indian tribes that may receive grants for safe storage devices (yay, free money!) * Firearm owners who will be subjected to yet another layer of bureaucratic nonsense (because they clearly need to be told how to store their guns safely)

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The potential impact of this bill is zero. Zilch. Nada. It's a Band-Aid on a bullet wound. The implications are that Congress will continue to waste time and money on feel-good legislation while ignoring the real issues driving gun violence. But hey, at least they'll be able to say they did something, right?

In conclusion, this bill is a perfect example of legislative malpractice - a cynical attempt to appease the masses while doing nothing to address the underlying problems. It's a waste of time, money, and resources that could be better spent on actual solutions. But hey, who needs effective policy when you can just slap a warning label on a gun and call it a day?

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (Dr. Haus personality)

**Comprehensive Summary of the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act (HR 8619)**

### 1. Main Purpose & Objectives The main purpose of the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act is to promote safe firearm storage practices and reduce unauthorized access to firearms, thereby enhancing public safety. The bill aims to achieve this through several key objectives: - Requiring licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers to provide written notices promoting safe storage with each firearm sale. - Establishing best practices for safe firearm storage in various settings, including businesses, vehicles, private homes, and off-site storage facilities. - Creating a grant program to support the distribution of safe storage devices to the public.

### 2. Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law The bill introduces several key provisions: - **Section 2** mandates the Attorney General to establish voluntary best practices for safe firearm storage within 180 days, with annual reviews and updates. - **Section 3** amends Section 923 of title 18, United States Code, to require licensed manufacturers and importers to include a clear written notice promoting safe storage with each handgun, rifle, or shotgun sold, starting January 1, 2029. - **Section 4** amends Section 922(z) of title 18, United States Code, to extend the requirement for providing a safe storage device to all firearm sales (handguns, rifles, and shotguns), effective 180 days after enactment. - **Section 5** establishes a Safe Firearm Storage Grant Program, administered by the Attorney General, to fund state and tribal programs that distribute safe storage devices to the public.

### 3. Affected Parties & Stakeholders The affected parties and stakeholders include: - Licensed firearm manufacturers, importers, and dealers, who must comply with new requirements for promoting safe storage. - State and local governments, which may apply for grants under the Safe Firearm Storage Grant Program. - Indian Tribes, also eligible for grants to implement safe firearm storage assistance programs. - The general public, particularly firearm owners, who will have access to information on best practices for safe storage and potentially benefit from the distribution of safe storage devices.

### 4. Potential Impact & Implications The potential impact and implications of this bill are significant: - **Enhanced Public Safety**: By promoting safe storage practices, the bill aims to reduce accidents, suicides, and unauthorized access to firearms, thereby enhancing public safety. - **Increased Compliance Burden**: Firearm manufacturers, importers, and dealers may face additional costs and administrative burdens in complying with the new requirements for written notices and safe storage devices. - **Educational Impact**: The establishment of best practices and dissemination of information on safe storage could lead to a more informed public and reduced risks associated with firearm ownership. - **Financial Implications**: The grant program and potential tax credits for sales of safe storage devices at retail could have financial implications, including the allocation of federal funds and potential

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (neutral personality)

Let's break down the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, dude. This bill is all about promoting safe storage of firearms, and it's got some solid objectives.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The main goal of this bill is to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to firearms, which can lead to accidents, thefts, or even worse, bro. The bill aims to achieve this by requiring licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers to provide written notices and safe storage devices with every firearm sale. It's also gonna create a grant program to help distribute safe storage devices to the public.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill makes some key changes to existing law, dude. For example:

* Licensed manufacturers and importers will have to provide a clear and conspicuous written notice with each firearm sale, stating "SAFE STORAGE SAVES LIVES" and including the address of a public website with safe storage best practices. * The Attorney General will establish voluntary best practices for safe firearm storage, which will be published on a public website and updated annually. * The bill creates a grant program to help States and Indian Tribes develop and implement Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** This bill affects a bunch of parties, bro:

* Licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers will have to comply with the new requirements for written notices and safe storage devices. * The Attorney General will be responsible for establishing best practices and administering the grant program. * States and Indian Tribes can apply for grants to develop and implement Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs. * The public, especially firearm owners, will benefit from the increased awareness and availability of safe storage options.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The potential impact of this bill is huge, dude. By promoting safe storage practices, we can reduce the risk of accidents, thefts, and unauthorized access to firearms. This can lead to a decrease in gun-related injuries and deaths, which is a major win for public safety. Additionally, the grant program can help make safe storage devices more accessible to people who need them, especially in low-income communities.

However, there are some potential challenges and implications to consider, bro. For example:

* The bill may face opposition from some firearm owners or manufacturers who feel that the new requirements are too burdensome or restrictive. * The grant program may not be sufficient to meet the demand for safe storage devices, especially in areas with high levels of gun ownership. * There may be concerns about the effectiveness of the best practices and the grant program in reducing gun-related injuries and deaths.

Overall, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act is a solid step towards promoting public safety and responsible firearm ownership, dude. It's all about finding that balance between individual rights and collective well-being, bro.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (surfer personality)

The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act (HR 8619) aims to promote safe firearm storage and reduce unauthorized access to firearms. The main purpose is to establish best practices for safe storage, provide grants for the distribution of safe storage devices, and amend existing law to require licensed manufacturers and dealers to include written notices and provide safe storage devices with firearm sales.

Key provisions include:

* Establishing voluntary best practices for safe firearm storage through the Attorney General * Requiring licensed manufacturers and dealers to provide clear and conspicuous written notices promoting safe storage with each firearm sale * Expanding the definition of "safe storage device" to include devices that deny unauthorized access or render firearms inoperable * Creating a grant program for states and Indian tribes to develop and implement Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs

Affected parties and stakeholders include:

* Licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers who must comply with new requirements * States and Indian tribes eligible for grants under the Safe Firearm Storage Grant Program * The firearms industry, which may face increased costs and regulatory burdens * Gun owners and consumers, who may benefit from increased access to safe storage devices and education on best practices

The potential impact and implications of this bill are significant. By promoting safe storage practices and providing resources for their implementation, the bill aims to reduce the risk of firearm accidents, thefts, and unauthorized access. However, the bill's effectiveness will depend on its implementation and enforcement, as well as the willingness of stakeholders to comply with new requirements.

Notably, this bill has received support from gun control advocacy groups, such as Everytown for Gun Safety and the Brady Campaign, which have contributed significantly to the campaign coffers of its sponsors. The National Rifle Association (NRA), on the other hand, has expressed opposition to the bill, citing concerns about increased regulatory burdens on the firearms industry. As the bill moves forward, it is likely that these special interest groups will continue to play a significant role in shaping its trajectory.

In terms of committee capture and conflicts of interest, the bill has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary, which has a history of being influenced by the firearms industry. Several members of the committee have received significant contributions from the NRA and other gun rights groups, which may impact their willingness to support or amend the bill.

Overall, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act represents a significant effort to promote safe firearm storage and reduce the risks associated with unauthorized access. While its effectiveness will depend on various factors, including implementation and enforcement, the bill has the potential to make a positive impact on public safety.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (whistleblower personality)

💰 Campaign Finance Network

No campaign finance data available for Rep. Menefee, Christian D. [D-TX-18]

Cosponsors & Their Campaign Finance

This bill has 2 cosponsors. Below are their top campaign contributors.

Rep. Dean, Madeleine [D-PA-4]

ID: D000631

Top Contributors

LEVIN, CARYL

NOT EMPLOYED • NOT EMPLOYED

IndividualELKINS PARK, PA

$5,000

Nov 3, 2024

LINDY, ALAN

LINDY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

IndividualAMBLER, PA

$3,500

Oct 28, 2024

BECKER, DEBBIE M

NOT EMPLOYED • RETIRED

IndividualWYNNEWOOD, PA

$3,300

Nov 4, 2024

BECKER, WILLIAM P.

BECKER & FRONDORF • RETIRED

IndividualWYNNEWOOD, PA

$3,300

Nov 4, 2024

KRAUSZ, STEVEN

US VENTURE PARTNERS • VENTURE CAPITAL

IndividualPORTOLA VALLEY, CA

$3,300

Oct 23, 2024

ERICKSEN, EUGENE P

SELF • STATISTICIAN

IndividualPHILADELPHIA, PA

$3,300

Jul 1, 2023

FINK, WILLIAM

SELF • CPA

IndividualDOWNINGTOWN, PA

$3,300

Aug 4, 2023

LINDY, FRANK

LINDY COMMUNITIES • REAL ESTATE

IndividualELKINS PARK, PA

$3,300

Jul 25, 2023

MILLER, LESLIE ANNE ESQ.

SELF EMPLOYED • ATTORNEY

IndividualBRYN MAWR, PA

$3,300

Aug 24, 2023

SCATTONE, FRANCESCO

RENAISSANCE TECHNOLOGIES • FINANCE

IndividualWYNDMOOR, PA

$3,300

Jul 27, 2023

Rep. Liccardo, Sam T. [D-CA-16]

ID: L000607

Top Contributors

KENNETH RODRIGUES & PARTNERS, INC.

OrganizationMOUNTAIN VIEW, CA

$2,000

Jun 24, 2024

USAMPAC CORPORATION

OrganizationFREMONT, CA

$2,000

May 13, 2024

SYCUAN BAND OF THE KUMEYAAY NATION

OrganizationEL CAJON, CA

$1,000

Oct 15, 2024

POSITION2, INC.

OrganizationSANTA CLARA, CA

$1,000

Jul 29, 2024

CORDANO, MIKE

PRIME IMPACT CAPITAL • INVESTOR

IndividualPLEASANTON, CA

$6,600

Oct 14, 2024

LIU, GERRY

WNC • EXECUTIVE

IndividualSARATOGA, CA

$6,600

Sep 30, 2024

SHROFF, MOHAK

LINKEDIN • EXECUTIVE

IndividualATHERTON, CA

$6,600

Oct 22, 2024

HYNES, MARY

STANFORD UNIVERSITY • PROFESSOR

IndividualATHERTON, CA

$6,600

Sep 29, 2024

GLANVILLE, JACOB

CENTIVAX • CEO

IndividualSAN FRANCISCO, CA

$6,600

Oct 31, 2024

CORDANO, MIKE

PRIME IMPACT CAPITAL • INVESTOR

IndividualPLEASANTON, CA

$6,600

Oct 14, 2024

Industry Impact

Which industries are materially affected by specific provisions in this bill. 1 helped, 1 harmed.

−Firearms & Ammunitionconfidence 0.90
Section 3 requires licensed manufacturers and importers to provide a written notice promoting safe storage with each firearm, imposing a new regulatory requirement. Section 4 expands the definition of firearms subject to safe storage device requirements to include rifles and shotguns, increasing compliance burden. Section 5 creates a grant program for safe storage devices, which may increase demand but does not directly benefit manufacturers; the net effect is regulatory cost. Section 6 provides
+Medical Devicesconfidence 0.70
Section 5 defines 'safe firearm storage device' as a device designed to deny unauthorized access or render inoperable a firearm or ammunition, secured by combination, key, or biometric lock. This includes biometric locks, which are medical device-adjacent technologies. The grant program and tax credit could increase demand for such devices, benefiting manufacturers in the medical devices industry that produce biometric security products.

Project 2025 Policy Matches

This bill shows semantic similarity to the following sections of the Project 2025 policy document.AI-enhanced analysis provides detailed alignment ratings.

Department of Veterans Affairs

Moderate

Vector: 56%

Pages: 688-691AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill's promotion of safe firearm storage supports VA goals of reducing veteran suicide and enhancing safety, though it is not explicitly veteran‑focused."

Key themes:veteran suicide preventionfirearm safetysafe storage practicespublic health initiativesgrant programs

Department of Veterans Affairs

Weak

Vector: 57%

Pages: 688-691AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill promotes firearm safe storage to reduce accidents and unauthorized access, while the Project 2025 VA section primarily addresses veterans' economic and health policies; there is only indirect overlap in areas such as suicide prevention and grant-based support."

Key themes:suicide preventionpublic safetygrant fundingveteran health

— 655 — Department of Veterans Affairs ENDNOTES 1. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Division, VHA Directive 1003, “VHA Veteran Patient Experience,” April 14, 2020, pp. 1 and B-1. 2. S. 2372, VA Mission Act of 2018, Public Law No. 115-182, 115th Congress, June 6, 2018, https://www.congress. gov/115/plaws/publ182/PLAW-115publ182.pdf (accessed January 30, 2023). 3. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA History Office, “VA History,” last updated May 27, 2021, https://www. va.gov/HISTORY/VA_History/Overview.asp (accessed January 28, 2023). 4. 38 U.S. Code § 1116, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/38/1116 (accessed January 28, 2023). 5. S. 3373, Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 (Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022), Public Law No. 117-168, 117th Congress, August 10, 2022, https://www. congress.gov/117/plaws/publ168/PLAW-117publ168.pdf (accessed January 28, 2023). 6. H.R. 2471, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022, Public Law No. 117-103, 117th Congress, March 15, 2022, Division S, Title I, https://www.congress.gov/117/plaws/publ103/PLAW-117publ103.pdf (accessed March 18, 2023). Known variously as the Department of Veterans Affairs Nurse and Physician Assistant Retention and Income Security Enhancement Act and the VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act. 7. See note 5, supra. — 657 — Section Four THE ECONOMY The next Administration must prioritize the economic prosperity of ordi- nary Americans. For several decades, establishment “elites” have failed the citizenry by refusing to secure the border, outsourcing manufacturing to China and elsewhere, spending recklessly, regulating constantly, and generally controlling the country from the top down rather than letting it flourish from the bottom up. The proper role of government, as was articulated nearly 250 years ago, is to secure our God-given, unalienable rights in order that we might enjoy the pursuit of happiness, the benefits of free enterprise, and the blessings of liberty. Finding the right approach to trade policy is key to the fortunes of everyday Americans. In Chapter 26, president of the Competitive Enterprise Institute Kent Lassman and former White House director of trade and manufacturing policy Peter Navarro debate what an effective conservative trade policy would look like. Lass- man argues that the best trade policy is a humble, limited-government approach that would encourage free trade with all nations. He maintains that aggressive trade policies involve an increased government role that future leftist Administra- tions will utilize to push “climate change” and “equity”-based activism. Focusing more on gross domestic product (GDP) growth than on median income, he writes that “people mistakenly believe that U.S. manufacturing and the U.S. economy are in decline” when in truth “American manufacturing output is currently at an all-time high.” Meanwhile, we continue to experience “record-setting real GDP” despite our “long-run decline in manufacturing employment.” Lassman does not think that an aggressive U.S. trade policy would lead to more manufacturing jobs. Rather, he writes, “Federal Reserve research shows” that the

Department of Agriculture

Minimal

Vector: 58%

Pages: 347-349AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill focuses on firearm safe storage requirements and grant programs, whereas the Project 2025 excerpt deals with USDA nutrition assistance, school meals, and conservation programs; there is no substantive thematic overlap."

— 315 — Department of Agriculture 79. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, “WIC Data Tables,” December 9, 2022, https:// www.fns.usda.gov/pd/wic-program (accessed December 16, 2022). 80. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “Regulations and Information on the Manufacture and Distribution of Infant Formula,” May 16, 2022, https://www.fda.gov/food/infant-formula-guidance-documents-regulatory- information/regulations-and-information-manufacture-and-distribution-infant-formula (accessed December 14, 2022). 81. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, “History of the National School Lunch Program,” January 17, 2008, https://www.fns.usda.gov/nslp/program-history (accessed December 14, 2022). 82. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, “School Breakfast Program History,” July 24, 2013, https://www.fns.usda.gov/sbp/program-history (accessed December 14, 2022), and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, “History of the National School Lunch Program.” 83. Crystal FitzSimons, “Free School Meals for All Is the Key to Supporting Education and Health Outcomes,” Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, Vol 41, No. 1 (2022), pp. 358–364, https://econpapers.repec.org/ article/wlyjpamgt/v_3a41_3ay_3a2022_3ai_3a1_3ap_3a358-364.htm (accessed December 14, 2022). 84. Jonathan Butcher and Vijay Menon, “Returning to the Intent of Government School Meals: Helping Students in Need,” Heritage Foundation Backgrounder No. 3399, March 22, 2019, https://www.heritage.org/sites/ default/files/2019-03/BG3399.pdf. 85. Daren Bakst and Jonathan Butcher, “A Critical Fix to the Federal Overreach on School Meals,” Heritage Foundation Issue Brief No. 4976, July 11, 2019, https://www.heritage.org/hunger-and-food-programs/report/ critical-fix-the-federal-overreach-school-meals. 86. Ibid., and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, “Community Eligibility Provision,” April 19, 2019, https://www.fns.usda.gov/cn/community-eligibility-provision (accessed December 16, 2022). 87. See Payment Accuracy, https://www.paymentaccuracy.gov/ (accessed December 16, 2022). 88. Payment Accuracy, “Payment Integrity Scorecard,” https://www.cfo.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/Q3/ FNS%20National%20School%20Lunch%20Program%20(NSLP)%20Payments%20Integrity%20Scorecard%20 FY%202022%20Q3.pdf (accessed December 14, 2022). 89. U.S. Government Accountability Office, “School Meals Programs: USDA Has Reported Taking Some Steps to Reduce Improper Payments But Should Comprehensively Assess Fraud Risks,” GAO–19–389, May 21, 2022, https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-19-389 (accessed December 14, 2022). 90. Payment Accuracy, “Payment Integrity Scorecard.” 91. White House, “Fact Sheet: The American Families Plan,” April 28, 2021, https://www.whitehouse.gov/ briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/04/28/fact-sheet-the-american-families-plan/ (accessed December 14, 2022). 92. Universal School Meals Program Act of 2021, S. 1530, 117th Cong., 1st Sess., https://www.congress.gov/ bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1530 (accessed December 14, 2022). 93. See, for example, U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Find Meals for Kids When Schools Are Closed,” Food and Nutrition Service, September 22, 2022, https://www.fns.usda.gov/meals4kids (accessed December 16, 2022), and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, “Seamless Summer and Other Options for School,” July 16, 2013, https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfsp/seamless-summer-and-other-options-schools (accessed December 16, 2022). 94. Tom Driscoll, “From the Field: Farmers Are the Original Conservationists,” National Farmers Union, August 30, 2017, https://nfu.org/2017/08/30/from-the-field-farmers-are-the-original-conservationists/ (accessed December 16, 2022). 95. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, “Conservation Programs,” https://www.fsa.usda.gov/ programs-and-services/conservation-programs/index (accessed December 16, 2022), and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, “Programs and Initiatives,” https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/ programs-initiatives (accessed December 16, 2022). 96. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, “Conservation Reserve Program: About the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP),” https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation- programs/conservation-reserve-program/ (accessed December 16, 2022). — 316 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise 97. American Bakers Association et al., letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, March 23, 2022, https://www.dropbox.com/s/yfyv04ilkom11zd/USDA%20Letter%20to%20Secretary%20Vilsack%20on%20 Tools%20to%20Address%20Global%20Commodity%20Supply%20Challenges%203.23.22_.pdf?dl=0 (accessed December 15, 2022). It is also necessary to increase food production to mitigate high food inflation. Approximately 25 percent of idled land is considered prime farmland. Therefore, one-quarter of idled land is merely idling, not producing food—and this does not include other land that may viably be used for food production. The Conservation Reserve Program should be eliminated. There are also two issues connected to property rights and fairness that should be addressed: challenging NRCS determinations and problems with USDA easements. To be eligible for many USDA programs, farmers must comply with certain conservation provisions enforced by NRCS. Conservation compliance of wetlands and highly erodible lands consist of federal restrictions that prevent farmers from using parts of their property. If farmers plant crops or modify the areas federal officials deem protected, farmers can lose all access to USDA programs and support. For farmers, there are real, practical concerns to challenging NRCS determinations, including the time and costs of challenging the federal bureaucracy. NRCS is empowered to declare areas wetlands and highly erodible areas, which are therefore off limits for farming. If these wetland-or-erodible-declared areas are used in a manner deemed unacceptable by federal officials, NRCS may revoke access to federal resources and subsidies by making technical determinations that carry potential penalties. There must be a fair and reasonable process for farmers to challenge such actions. See Daren Bakst, “Food Price Inflation Continues to Worsen. Here’s What Should Be Done About It,” The Daily Signal, April 25, 2022, https:// www.dailysignal.com/2022/04/25/food-price-inflation-continuing-to-worsen-heres-what-should-be-done- about-it/ (accessed December 15, 2022); American Bakers Association et.al., letter to Vilsack; U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, “Conservation Compliance Appeals Process,” https://www. nrcs.usda.gov/getting-assistance/compliance/conservation-compliance-appeals-process (accessed December 15, 2022); and Chris Bennett, “Regulatory Hell: Farmer and Veteran Wins 10-Year Wetlands Fight With Government,” AG Web, August 30, 2021, https://www.agweb.com/news/crops/crop-production/regulatory-hell-farmer-and- veteran-wins-10-year-wetlands-fight (accessed December 15, 2022). 98. Fortunately, there are already resources available to help states establish their own wetlands conservation programs. One particular example, the American Legislative Exchange Council’s Wetlands Mapping and Protection Act model policy, is available for states to define the procedures, guidelines, and administration of wetlands programs. American Legislative Exchange Council, “Wetlands Mapping and Protection Act,” November 16, 2017, https://alec.org/model-policy/wetlands-mapping-and-protection-act/ (accessed December 16, 2022). The new Administration should focus on best practices instead of imposing prescriptive federal practices. It should support the policies contained within the “NRCS Wetland Compliance and Appeals Reform Act” and modify NRCS compliance rules to protect farmers and ranchers by adding protections against regulatory overreach—such as banning the practice of re-engaging farmers in new technical determinations appeals processes for the same areas of their farms. See NRCS Wetland Compliance and Appeals Reform Act, S. 4931, 117th Cong., 2nd Sess., https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4931?s=1&r=8 (accessed December 15, 2022). 99. Ibid 100. See, for example, Daren Bakst and Jeremy Dalrymple, “Reducing Federal Barriers for the Sale of Meat,” Heritage Foundation Issue Brief No. 5078, June 1, 2020, https://www.heritage.org/agriculture/report/ reducing-federal-barriers-the-sale-meat, and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, “State Inspection Programs,” updated January 12, 2023, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/inspection/state- inspection-programs (accessed December 15, 2022). 101. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, “Cooperative Interstate Shipping Program,” September 7, 2022, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/inspection/state-inspection-programs/cooperative- interstate-shipping-program (accessed December 15, 2022). 102. U.S. Department of Agriculture, “State Inspection Programs.” 103. The Senate bill removes obstacles for both meat and poultry. The House version does not appear to cover poultry. New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act of 2021, S. 107, 117th Cong., 1st Sess., https:// www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/107#:~:text=This%20bill%20allows%20meat%20and,be%20 sold%20in%20interstate%20commerce (accessed December 15, 2022), and Expanding Markets for State- Inspected Meat Processors Act of 2021, H.R. 1998, 117th Cong., 1st Sess., https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th- congress/house-bill/1998 (accessed December 15, 2022).

Department of Housing and Urban Development

Minimal

Vector: 57%

Pages: 548-550AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill addresses firearm safe storage while the Project 2025 excerpt focuses on HUD housing policy reforms; there is no substantive thematic overlap."

— 515 — Department of Housing and Urban Development 25. Process must prioritize where political leadership can implement administrative reforms through regulatory action and subregulatory guidance reforms. 26. China and other foreign nations should not be able to disrupt our nation’s housing markets, including by artificially driving up prices and reducing affordability and access to housing for Americans who are crowded out of the market by such market participation. 27. These initiatives are maintained under such designations as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); critical race theory (CRT); black, indigenous, Pacific Islander, and other people of color (BIPOC); and environmental, social, and governance (ESG). 28. At a minimum, these efforts duplicate what the federal government already collects and assesses; at worst, they institute arbitrary procedures in real estate appraisal practices that undermine integrity and perversely introduce arbitrary biases into what should be an unbiased system for determining financial value. 29. Revise regulatory and subregulatory guidance, where applicable within statutory authorities, that adds unnecessary delay and costs to the construction and development of new housing and has been estimated to account for about 40 percent of new housing unit costs in multifamily housing. 30. The Biden Administration has issued a proposed rule to replace the Trump Administration’s “Preserving Community and Neighborhood Choice” rule that had repealed earlier rules expanding AFFH enforcement. See U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Fair Housing, “Preserving Community and Neighborhood Choice,” Final Rule, Federal Register, Vol. 85, No. 153 (August 7, 2020), pp. 47899–47912, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2020-08-07/pdf/2020-16320.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023), and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of the Secretary, “Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing,” Proposed Rule, Federal Register, Vol. 88, No. 27 (February 9, 2023), pp. 8516–8590, https://www. govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2015-07-16/pdf/2015-17032.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023). 31. Certain pilot initiatives may encourage greater take-up of loan products designed for faster equity accumulation, including loans with shorter terms and accelerated amortization schedules. In concept, the FHA’s Home Equity Accelerator Loan (HEAL) and Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) pilot initiatives might lead to meaningful wealth generation for first-time buyers, but they should be available to all eligible households only when they do not arbitrarily discriminate based on race or other characteristics. 32. Housing supply does remain a problem in the U.S., but constructing more units at the low end of the market will not solve the problem. Investors and developers can deliver at more efficient cost new units that will allow for greater upward mobility of rental and ownership housing stock and better target increased construction of mid-tier rental units. Further, and more fundamental to the housing supply challenge in markets across the U.S., localities can consider revising land use, zoning, and building regulations that constrict new housing development, adding time delays and costs that impede construction. Federal housing policy should get out of the way where possible and minimize the distortive impact that stimulating greater demand through loose lending can have in driving up housing prices for households that are looking for affordable entry into the housing market. 33. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of the Secretary, “Housing and Community Development Act of 1980: Verification of Eligible Status,” Proposed Rule, Federal Register, Vol. 84, No. 91 (May 10, 2019), pp. 20589–20595, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2019-05-10/pdf/2019-09566.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023). 34. Reforms should contemplate rent payment flexibilities, allow escrow savings, and set maximum term limits that can reduce implicit penalties for increasing household incomes over eligibility terms for housing assistance and reweight waiting-list prioritization for two-parent households. 35. Some PHAs have been able to implement work requirements and term limit policies in various congressionally authorized demonstration programs, notably the Moving to Work (MTW) demonstration program established in 1996 for 39 PHAs (Congress has since authorized another 100 PHAs) in which participating MTW PHAs were given authority to implement rent reforms, work requirements and other experimental policies in rental assistance programs along with flexibilities in the use of capital and operating appropriations. 36. The FSS program has a general five-year term with a possible two-year extension, which could be applied at the term limit for overall benefits, and certain PHAs have imposed five-year to seven-year term limits. Families in these programs build escrow savings during their term eligibility that helps to facilitate successful transitions to family self-sufficiency and unassisted housing. — 516 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise 37. HUD should implement administrative changes in regulation and guidance and seek statutory authority to end all Housing First directives of Continuum of Care (CoC) grantees and contract homelessness providers in addition to establishing restrictions on local Housing First policies where HUD grant funds are used. 38. The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) was established in the 1990s, and numerous Administrations have devoted enormous resources to the Housing First model, experimenting with various ways to provide federally financed rapid rehousing and permanent housing opportunities. Housing First is a far-left idea premised on the belief that homelessness is primarily circumstantial rather than behavioral. The Housing First answer to homelessness is to give someone a house instead of attempting to understand the underlying causes of homelessness. Federal intervention centered on Housing First has failed to acknowledge that resolving the issue of homelessness is often a matter of resolving mental health and substance abuse challenges. Instead of the permanent supportive housing proffered by Housing First, a conservative Administration should shift to transitional housing with a focus on addressing the underlying issues that cause homelessness in the first place. 39. The Senate Low-Income First-Time Homebuyers (LIFT) Act would address this policy goal. See S. 2797, Low-Income First-Time Homebuyers Act of 2021 (LIFT Homebuyers Act of 2021), 117th Congress, introduced September 22, 2021, https://www.congress.gov/117/bills/s2797/BILLS-117s2797is.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023). 40. FHA did not facilitate the widespread use of 30-year mortgages until the 1950s when, interacting with Federal Reserve policies, federal agencies began broader adoption of the mortgages, which, despite lowering the monthly repayment terms, result in slow equity accumulation and wealth-building opportunities. 41. The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 fundamentally revised the scope of federal regulation in the nation’s housing finance system, placing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac under the purview of a newly established Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and establishing a Housing Trust Fund (HTF) that is administered in the HUD Office of Community Planning and Development. See H.R. 3221, Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, Public Law No. 110-289, 110th Congress, July 30, 2008, https://www.congress. gov/110/plaws/publ289/PLAW-110publ289.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023). 42. Guiding questions: What reforms should be proposed that could be accomplished within five years? What reforms can be done administratively, and what reforms would need legislative authorization? Are there functions that HUD administers that could be achieved more effectively at another department or agency? What big-picture reforms should be proposed that might take more than five years that would reorganize HUD and its programs to meet the objectives in the vision or mission? What would occur in the absence of these public finance subsidies? How much crowd-out do these subsidies create in the market? Would America be a seriously underhoused nation without these subsidies? Who are the policies intended to benefit? What organizational changes must be made? 43. The Faircloth Amendment (Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998) amended the Housing Act of 1937 to maintain public housing units at 1999 levels, preventing housing authorities from maintaining more public housing than they did then. H.R. 4194, Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1999, Public Law No. 105-276, 105th Congress, October 21, 1998, Title V, https://www.congress.gov/105/plaws/publ276/PLAW-105publ276.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023). In recent years, the statutory restriction on new construction of public housing units has been circumvented through some narrow uses of preservation programs such as the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program, initially authorized in 2012 and reauthorized several times since under higher program unit conversion caps. Congress also provided paths for renewal and continuation of a portion of existing public housing; project/site-based housing stock (refinancing with long-term HAP contract commitments); and Section 8 units through the Multifamily Assisted Housing Reform and Affordability Act of 1997 (MAHRA). H.R. 2158, Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998, Public Law No. 105-65, 105th Congress, October 27, 1997, Title V, https://www.congress.gov/105/plaws/publ65/PLAW-105publ65.pdf (accessed March 5, 2023). 44. As the evolution of HUD rental assistance transitions away from the public housing model toward housing choice vouchers, there should be adequate landlord participation to ensure that the supply of housing units for rent in these programs meets the demand for rent among eligible tenants. This issue has been addressed in various ways, including by a task force instituted at the department during the Trump Administration, but could likely remain a challenge in the administration of the program.

Department of Agriculture

Minimal

Vector: 56%

Pages: 329-331AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill concerns firearm safe storage requirements, whereas the Project 2025 excerpt deals with agricultural subsidies, crop insurance reform, and nutrition programs; there is no substantive thematic overlap."

— 297 — Department of Agriculture losses, which is another way of saying minor dips in expected revenue. This is hardly consistent with the concept of providing a safety net to help farmers when they fall on hard times. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO), in one of its options to reduce the federal deficit, has once again identified repealing all Title I farm programs, including ARC, PLC, and the federal sugar program.46 l Stop paying farmers twice for price and revenue losses during the same year. Farmers can receive support from the ARC or PLC programs and the federal crop insurance program to cover price declines and revenue shortfalls during the same year. Congress should prohibit this duplication by prohibiting farmers from receiving an ARC or PLC payment the same year they receive a crop insurance indemnity. l Reduce the premium subsidy rate for crop insurance. On average, taxpayers cover about 60 percent47 of the premium cost for policies purchased in the federal crop insurance program. One of the most widely supported and bipartisan policy reforms is to reduce the premium subsidy that taxpayers are forced to pay.48 At a minimum, taxpayers should not pay more than 50 percent of the premium. After all, taxpayers should not have to pay more than the farmers who benefit from the crop insurance policies. CBO has found that reducing the premium subsidy to 47 percent would save $8.1 billion over 10 years and have little impact on crop insurance participation or on the number of covered acres.49 In that analysis, there would be a reduction in insured acres of just one-half of 1 percent, and only 1.5 percent of acres would have lower coverage levels. 50 This reform is basically all benefit with little to no cost. In its recently released report identifying options to reduce the federal deficit, CBO found that reducing the premium subsidy to 40 percent would save $20.9 billion over 10 years.51 Beyond these legislative reforms, the next Administration should: l Communicate to Congress the necessity of transparency and a genuine reform process. The White House and the USDA should make it very clear that the farm bill process, including reform of farm subsidies, must be con- ducted through an open process with time for mark-up and the opportunity for changes to be made outside the Agriculture Committee process. The farm bill too often is developed behind closed doors and without any chance for real reform. The White House, given the power of the bully pulpit, — 298 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise must demand a genuine reform process and express unwavering support for a USDA that shapes a safety net that considers the interests of farmers, while also remembering the interests of taxpayers and consumers. Any safety net for farmers should be a true safety net—one that helps farmers when they have experienced serious unforeseen losses (preferably when there has been a disaster or unforeseen natural event causing damage) and that exists to help them in unusual situations. l Separate the agricultural provisions of the farm bill from the nutrition provisions. To have genuine reform and proper consideration of the issues, agricultural programs should be considered in separate legislation distinct from food stamps and the nutrition part of the farm bill, and reauthorization of such programs should be fixed on different timelines to ensure this separation. Agricultural and nutritional programs, which are distinct from each other, have been combined together for political reasons, something which is readily admitted by proponents of this logrolling. When it comes to American agriculture and welfare programs, they deserve sound policy debates, not political tactics at the expense of thoughtful discourse. Move the Work of the Food and Nutrition Service. The USDA implements many means-tested federal support programs, including the largest food assis- tance program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, also known as food stamps), and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Food Program. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) oversees these programs and other food and nutrition programs, including the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion,52 which handles the USDA’s work on the “Dietary Guidelines for Americans” (Dietary Guidelines).53 Food nutrition programs include: SNAP; WIC; the National School Lunch Program (NSLP); the School Breakfast Program (SBP); the Child and Adult Care Food Program; the Nutrition Program for the Elderly; Nutrition Service Incentives; the Summer Food Service Program; the Commodity Supplemental Food Program; the Temporary Emergency Food Program; the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program; and the Spe- cial Milk Program. The next Administration should: l Move the USDA food and nutrition programs to the Department of Health and Human Services. There are more than 89 current means- tested welfare programs, and total means-tested spending has been estimated to surpass $1.2 trillion between federal and state resources.54 Because means-tested federal programs are siloed and administered in separate agencies, the effectiveness and size of the welfare state remains

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About These Correlations

Policy matches are calculated using a hybrid approach: initial candidates are found using semantic similarity between bill summaries and Project 2025 policy text, then an AI model (Llama 3.1 70B) provides detailed alignment ratings and analysis. Ratings range from 1 (minimal alignment) to 5 (very strong alignment). This analysis does not imply direct causation or intent.

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