Sec. 6. Studies
413 words·~2 min read·
/bill/115/hr/5373/ih/section-6A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall initiate a study of algae protein production potential. The study shall— review and validate projected needs and supply gaps for protein in the United States for the next 20 years (beginning with 2019), based on current production trends, demand and technology outlook; assess the physical and economic feasibility for the United States to grow algae (including microalgae and macroalgae) to address such needs and supply gaps; compare the nutritional profile and benefits of algae with other alternative protein sources and meat proteins; determine public and private activities and investments required to scale up to United States algae protein production over the short-, medium-, and long-term; estimate the number of jobs created, per State and per Congressional district, by fully ramping up production of algae proteins; and estimate the potential value of algae protein exports from the United States by 2025, 2030, and 2035.
The team of individuals conducting such study shall include one laboratory of the Department of Agriculture, one laboratory of the Department of Energy, industry associations, and academics. Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall submit to Congress a report that describes the results of the study. There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection such sums as may be necessary, to remain available until expended.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall initiate a competitive external study to determine the benefits to microbial diversity, the restoration of soil organic carbon and humic substances, and other aspects of soil health of on-field application of algae biomass (including microalgae and macroalgae) or algae-derived components. The study shall, with respect to the application of algae biomass— develop a research protocol for a three-year evaluation; conduct field trials; prepare and disseminate an annual progress report to the public on the Internet website of the Department of Agriculture; and prepare and disseminate a final report to the public, including an assessment of opportunities and barriers to commercial deployment.
Not later than 4 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes the results of the study. There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection such sums as may be necessary, to remain available until expended.