Appropriators Make Clear They Don't Back ERS, NIFA Move

The massive spending plan aimed at averting another government shutdown wades into the issue of USDA's plan to move the Economic Research Service (ERS) and National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) out of the National Capital Region. The explanatory statement accompanying the bill notes that "conferees are concerned about the unknown costs associated with the proposed move" if NIFA and ERS to a new location. "In submitting the Fiscal Year 2020 budget justification, the Department is directed to include all cost estimates for the proposed move of the two agencies, as well as a detailed analysis of any research benefits of their relocation." Plus, they also say it is appropriate that ERS remain under the Research, Education and Economics mission area and not be put under the Office of the Chief Economist. "The conferees take this position as several questions remain about the merits of the proposed transfer as well as the proposed relocation of ERS outside of the National Capital Region," the statement noted. "Insufficient information and justification relating to the reorganization and relocation make moving forward on these proposals premature at this time." The statement also warns USDA "conferees support an indefinite delay in the proposed transfer of ERS to the Office of the Chief Economist."