In a significant move to bolster farmers’ access to cutting-edge technology, Representatives Adam Gray (D-CA), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), and Brad Finstad (R-MN) have introduced the bipartisan Precision Agriculture Enhancement for Competitive Industries through Supportive Education (PRECISE) Act. This legislation aims to leverage existing USDA funds to encourage private investment, enhance research, and ultimately, equip farmers with the tools they need to boost productivity and sustainability.
The PRECISE Act proposes amendments to existing USDA loan programs, increased cost-sharing for technology purchases, and the use of third-party providers for technical assistance. These provisions are designed to help farmers navigate the current agricultural landscape, which is increasingly shaped by climate change, market fluctuations, and the need for sustainable practices.
Representative Gray emphasized the importance of expanded federal support in ensuring farmers’ competitiveness. “By providing farmers with advanced technology, we can help them produce more with less, reducing their environmental impact and securing our nation’s food supply,” Gray stated. Representative Hinson echoed these sentiments, highlighting the act’s potential to improve crop yields and reduce costs for farmers.
The bipartisan support for the PRECISE Act underscores a strategic effort to address the challenges faced by farmers today. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, access to precision agriculture technology is becoming increasingly vital. This legislation, if passed, could play a significant role in shaping the future of American farming, promoting sustainability, and ensuring the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture on the global stage.
The PRECISE Act is part of a broader push by Representative Gray to support farmers and rural communities. His recent legislative efforts include the Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act of 2025, the STRIVE Act of 2025, and the Stop Raising Prices on Food Act. Gray’s fundraising efforts, which saw him raise over $500,000 in the third quarter of 2025, further demonstrate his commitment to these issues.
As the PRECISE Act makes its way through Congress, it will be closely watched by farmers, agricultural businesses, and policymakers alike. The act’s potential to transform American farming practices and promote sustainability makes it a key piece of legislation in the ongoing effort to support and strengthen the agricultural sector.