Organic Produce Association Requests FY25 Funding from Appropriations Leadership
May 22, 2024This week, the OPA sent a letter to the leaders of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, who are responsible for drafting the USDA’s annual spending legislation. The letter requested increased funding to support USDA programs benefiting organic producers in this year’s appropriations bill. The letter requests funding for key organic programs:
National Organic Program: Develops and enforces consistent national standards for USDA certified organic products.
Organic Transitions Research Program: Supports the development and implementation of research, extension, and higher education programs to improve the competitiveness of organic producers, as well as those who are adopting organic practices.
Organic Certification Cost-Share Program: Provides cost share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products who are obtaining or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program.
Organic Production and Market Data Initiative: USDA provides domestic and international price reporting, economic analyses, census data, and other information on organic production and marketing.
Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program: USDA’s premier research program for sustainable agriculture research.
As the Appropriations committee drafts FY25 appropriations bills, we urge them to maintain essential funding for these critical programs to meet the increasing demand for organic products.
See letter here.
About the OPA:
The Organic Produce Association comprises members from the organic produce industry dedicated to science-based policymaking and innovation while upholding the traditions and integrity of the USDA Organic Seal.