Commentary: Will the Real USDA Reorganization Plan Please Stand Up?

A proposed USDA reorganization plan, the Agency Reduction in Force and Reorganization Plan (ARRP), could sharply reduce or eliminate numerous USDA rural housing programs. The planned changes would consolidate subagencies into one agency, eliminating State Offices, and transforming the Section 502 program from a direct origination loan to a guaranteed loan. These potential shifts also include exploring transferring Rural Development loan programs to the Small Business Administration or Department of Housing and Urban Development.