To amend the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to expand the national organic certification cost-share program into a comprehensive opportunities in organic program, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · January 17, 2024
Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology.
The Opportunities in Organic Act of 2023 expands a federal cost-sharing program to help farmers become certified organic producers and handlers. The bill increases assistance beyond just covering certification costs to include grants for transitioning to organic farming, technical support, and building supply chain infrastructure, with special focus on socially disadvantaged farmers, small and mid-sized operations, and vulnerable agricultural regions. Eligible nonprofit organizations can receive funding for activities like farmer training, mentorship programs, soil health improvements, and establishing cooperative networks and food distribution facilities. The legislation authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, increasing to $80 million in 2026 and $100 million annually for 2027 and 2028. The bill also requires the Department of Agriculture to expand technical assistance resources across its agencies, universities, extension programs, and state departments of agriculture to support organic transition efforts.
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