By Lily Hawkins, Policy Director
Appropriations Continuing Resolution and Farm Bill Extension Likely
Lawmakers are returning to Washington, D.C. after their August recess with expiration dates looming for both the Farm Bill and annual spending bills.
With progress well behind schedule on both efforts, it is nearly impossible that they will complete either process before the end of the federal fiscal year on September 30. If they do not pass a FY2025 budget by that date, Congress will likely pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) to extend the current federal spending levels to avoid an October government shutdown. The programs funded by the Farm Bill are separate from the annual appropriations bills, and expire more gradually. However, lawmakers could choose to include a Farm Bill extension as part of a CR.
Any Farm Bill Extension Must Protect Organic Certification Cost Share Program
The organic certification cost-share program is authorized every 5 years through the Farm Bill.
After reductions in 2020, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced in 2023 that they would restore reimbursement rates for the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) to 75% of the certified organic operation’s eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $750 per scope. This brought the amount of funding back up to the maximum allowed by the 2018 Farm Bill.
Because OCCSP is a very small program, cost-share does not have “permanent baseline” funding status. When the 2018 Farm Bill was extended last November, the extension was crafted in a way that preserved funding for cost-share and other so-called ‘orphan’ programs, programs without mandatory baseline funding. If the current Farm Bill is again extended, provisions must be included so that cost share funding is maintained. OFA has been told that funding for 2024 is secure. However provisions in any extension are needed so that organic farmers who use the program can plan ahead for their 2025 certification costs.
Take action: Please visit usa.gov to find contact information for your members of Congress and urge them to renew funding for the organic certification cost share program in any Farm Bill extension and modernize cost-share by supporting the Opportunities in Organic Act in the next Farm Bill.
Participate in the National Organic Standards Board’s Fall Meeting
The NOSB meets twice a year to work on recommendations to the USDA about organic standards and the National List of materials that are allowed or prohibited in organic production.
This fall, the NOSB will convene an online Public Comment Webinar in mid-October followed by an in-person meeting in Portland, Oregon the next week.
- Public Comment Webinar Day 1: Tuesday, October 15 from 12pm – 5pm ET
- Public Comment Webinar Day 2: Thursday, October 17 from 12pm – 5pm ET
- In- Person Meeting Day 1: Tuesday, October 22 from 8:30am – 6pm PT
- In- Person Meeting Day 2: Wednesday, October 23 from 8:30am – 6pm PT
- In- Person Meeting Day 3: Thursday, October 24 from 8:30am – 6pm PT
For more details on the meeting, including the agenda and materials, and to register for virtual testimony visit the USDA webpage here.
OFA will be focusing our comments on the materials Meloxicam and Methionine, plastics in compost, and residue testing for organic imports.
If you would like to register to provide oral testimony or need help with written comments please call our Farmer Helpline at (833) 724-3834, or contact OFA Farmer Services Director Julia Barton at julia@organicfarmersassociation.org.
Join the Organic Farmers Association and Have Your Policy Needs Heard
OFA is the only national organization where certified organic farmers set and lead policy priorities. Join organic farmers and supporters across the country advocating for the policies that protect small and midsized family farms.
Farm
Membership
For U.S. Certified Organic Farmers
As a Farm Member, you have full voting rights on OFA’s policy positions and priorities making you a direct decision-maker in the national organic movement.
Supporter Membership
For Anyone Who Believes in Organic Farming
Not certified organic? A concerned consumer? Retired organic farmer? You can still make a difference! Supporter members receive policy updates, action alerts, and opportunities to advocate on behalf of organic farmers nationwide.
Organization Membership
For Organizations Serving Organic Farmers
Extend your network and give your members a stronger national voice. Organization Members get advocacy tools, policy resources, and direct connection to the broader organic farming community.