SOLAR Act

HR 7923, the SOLAR Act, restricts USDA funding for solar energy projects that convert protected farmland. It prohibits financial assistance for projects converting "covered farmland" (agricultural land protected under existing law) for solar use, except for projects converting less than 1 acre or a small percentage of land (max 5 acres), and only if approved by local counties and municipalities. The bill requires applicants for exceptions to develop a plan protecting soil health during construction and operation, and fully restoring the land after the project ends. It also mandates that funds for decommissioning and land restoration must be secured before USDA disburses project funding.