Government Shutdown Threatens Vital Organic Programs

Earlier this week, Congress reached a bipartisan compromise to fund the government through March 14. The package included critical funding for “orphaned” organic programs, over $100 billion in disaster relief, and $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers.

But passage of the spending package was stymied after President-elect Trump rejected the bill. In response, a new streamlined bill was introduced. The bill excluded funding for key organic programs. On Thursday evening, this revised bill was decisively defeated in the House. Now, Congress is scrambling to find a resolution before a government shutdown takes effect at midnight tonight.

The National Organic Coalition, together with our members and allies, have been working tirelessly over the past several weeks to emphasize to Congress the importance of supporting organic programs in the Farm Bill extension. These programs, while small in the broader context of government spending, are essential to the success of organic farms and businesses. Any measure to extend the Farm Bill must include funding for the following:

1.     The Organic Certification Cost Share Program: Thousands of organic farms and businesses depend on this reimbursement program to help offset the costs of organic certification.

2.     The Organic Data Initiative: This initiative is vital for collecting and analyzing data to support and promote organic agriculture.

3.     The Organic Certification Trade and Tracking Program (OCTT): This program provides the critical technology infrastructure needed by the USDA National Organic Program to enforce organic regulations and prevent fraud.

As the clock ticks down, it is imperative that Congress acts swiftly to reach a compromise that not only funds the federal government but also extends critical Farm Bill programs. Ensuring that all orphaned organic programs receive funding is essential for the continued growth and success of the organic sector. Without these programs, thousands of organic farms and businesses will face significant challenges, jeopardizing their ability to thrive in an already uncertain economic climate.