The proposed Federal budget for fiscal 2021 includes a 27 percent reduction for the USDA-ERS from $85.3 million in fiscal 2020 to $62.0 million in fiscal 2021.  The reduction would impact research, publications and staff.

It is noted that USDA-ERS was subjected to a forced relocation from Washington, DC. to Kansas City resulting in considerable attrition of personnel in 2019.

It is hoped that Congress will restore funding to a level that allows the ERS to maintain their high level of service and to conduct research, irrespective of whether the results may conflict with current White House policy.