HR4657-119

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Next Generation Farmer Act.

2. Experience requirements Section 302(b) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1922(b)) is amended— in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 3 years and inserting 1 year; and by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following: In the case of a qualified beginning farmer or rancher, the Secretary may waive the 1-year requirement in paragraph (1) if the farmer or rancher has— at least 1 year of experience as hired farm labor with substantial management responsibilities; or an established relationship with an individual who has experience in farming or ranching, or is a retired farmer or rancher, and is participating as a counselor in a Service Corps of Retired Executives program authorized under section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B)), or with a local farm or ranch operator or organization, approved by the Secretary, that is committed to mentoring the farmer or rancher. (4)Waiver authorityIn the case of a qualified beginning farmer or rancher, the Secretary may waive the 1-year requirement in paragraph (1) if the farmer or rancher has—(A)at least 1 year of experience as hired farm labor with substantial management responsibilities; or(B)an established relationship with an individual who has experience in farming or ranching, or is a retired farmer or rancher, and is participating as a counselor in a Service Corps of Retired Executives program authorized under section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B)), or with a local farm or ranch operator or organization, approved by the Secretary, that is committed to mentoring the farmer or rancher..