A Consideration of the Devolution of U.S. Agricultural Policy

23 Pages Posted: 7 Dec 2004

See all articles by Betsey Kuhn

Betsey Kuhn

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Economic Research Service (ERS)

Susan E. Offutt

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Economic Research Service (ERS)

Mitch Morehart

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Economic Research Service (ERS)

Abstract

Diverse needs and preferences across the United States provide justification for the devolution, or decentralization, of many Federal Government programs to the State or local level. The move toward devolution, however, has not been evidenced in U.S. agricultural policy, despite significant differences across States in such areas as commodity production, production costs, income distribution, and opportunities for off-farm work. The existing structure of USDA funding and program delivery already reflects an appreciation of the gains from devolution, with some programs accommodating differences in State and regional preferences. This report considers the implications of devolving $22 billion in 2003 budget outlays, mostly for domestic commodity and natural resource programs and rural development and housing programs. The local knowledge of needs and preferences is valuable and can provide the basis for increased program efficiency.

Keywords: Public policy, devolution, agricultural policy, program delivery

Suggested Citation

Kuhn, Betsey and Offutt, Susan E. and Morehart, Mitch, A Consideration of the Devolution of U.S. Agricultural Policy. USDA-ERS Agricultural Economic Report No. 836, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=617881

Betsey Kuhn (Contact Author)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Economic Research Service (ERS) ( email )

355 E Street, SW
Washington, DC 20024-3221
United States

Susan E. Offutt

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Economic Research Service (ERS) ( email )

355 E Street, SW
Washington, DC 20024-3221
United States

Mitch Morehart

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Economic Research Service (ERS) ( email )

355 E Street, SW
Washington, DC 20024-3221
United States
202-694-5581 (Phone)

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