The Secretary may make competitive research and extension grants for the purpose of—
(1)improving the farm management knowledge and skills of agricultural producers; and
(2)establishing and maintaining a national, publicly available farm financial management database to support improved farm management.
(b) Selection criteria
In allocating funds made available to carry out this section, the Secretary may give priority to grants that—
(1)demonstrate an ability to work directly with agricultural producers;
(2)collaborate with farm management and producer associations;
(3)address the farm management needs of a variety of crops and regions of the United States; and
(4)use and support the national farm financial management database.
(c) Administration
Paragraphs (4), (7), (8), and (11)(B) of subsection (b) of section
450i of this title shall apply with respect to the making of grants under this section.
(d) Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.