Opportunities in Organic Act

Key Points

• Congress introduced a bill to expand help for farmers who want to grow organic food. It turns a small existing program into a larger one called 'Opportunities in Organic' to provide more money and hands-on help for the multi-year process of becoming certified organic.
• The bill increases the money farmers can get back for certification costs to $1,500. It also allows for even higher payments for farmers in expensive areas or those from groups that have been historically overlooked by government programs.
• Nonprofit groups would receive funding to guide farmers through the transition. This includes help with paperwork, soil testing, buying organic seeds, and learning new ways to manage pests and weeds without synthetic chemicals.
• To help with the financial risk, the program offers four-year grants to cover lost income while a farm is switching over. It also funds new buildings and equipment, like organic meat processing plants and storage freezers, to help get organic products to local markets.
• The plan sets aside $50 million starting in 2027, growing to $100 million by 2030. It specifically targets small and mid-sized farms, as well as farms located near schools and residential areas, to encourage healthier farming practices in those communities.

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