Lawmakers propose the Organic Market Development Act to provide increased support for organic farmers in response to growing demand. The bill aims to codify and expand funding for the USDA’s Organic Market Development Grant program, helping organic farmers sustain and grow their businesses.
Supporting Organic Farmers: The Organic Market Development Act
Lawmakers in the United States are proposing a bill to provide increased support for organic farmers in response to the growing demand for organic products. The Organic Market Development Act, introduced by U.S. Sens. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Angus King of Maine in the Senate, along with U.S. Reps. Chellie Pingree of Maine and Annie Kuster of New Hampshire in the House, aims to codify and expand funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Organic Market Development Grant program. This program allows organic farmers and producers to apply for grants to help sustain and grow their businesses.
( Credit to: Wisconsinexaminer )
The demand for organic food has been steadily increasing, with organic agriculture sales reaching $60 billion last year. Senator Baldwin highlights the need to equip organic farmers with the necessary tools to meet this growing demand. Senator King emphasizes the importance of supporting Maine’s organic food movement, which plays a significant role in the state’s agricultural economy.
Expanding Funding for Organic Agriculture
The Organic Market Development Grant program aims to support various aspects of the organic agriculture industry, including production, aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, distribution, and the development of consumer markets. Organic farmers and producers can use the funds to upgrade their equipment and facilities, ultimately enhancing their ability to meet market demands.
Currently, the Organic Market Development Grant program has received a one-time $75 million allocation through the Commodity Credit Corporation, but it is only funded for the 2023 fiscal year. The proposed bill seeks to maintain the annual $75 million funding while also adding a recurring $25 million in appropriations starting from the 2024 fiscal year.
Supporting Organic Farmers Nationwide
Wisconsin, with its 1,455 certified organic farms, ranks second in the nation. Senator Baldwin emphasizes the importance of providing support to Wisconsin’s organic farmers and businesses, enabling them to grow and expand their operations. Maine, on the other hand, faces challenges from changing global markets and climate change. Senator King believes that continued support and resources are necessary for organic farmers in Maine to adapt and thrive in these evolving conditions.
The bill has received endorsements from organizations such as the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA). They believe that the bill can help rural farming communities in Maine by enabling producers to add value to their products and keep more money within the state.
Inspired by Success: The Dairy Business Innovation Act
The proposed legislation draws inspiration from the Dairy Business Innovation Act, which seeks to increase funding for the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. These initiatives support dairy businesses in the development, production, marketing, and distribution of their products. The hope is that similar funding increases can be realized for the organic sector.
The lawmakers are aiming to include the Organic Market Development Act in the upcoming farm bill. While negotiations are ongoing, the bill has strong support from both the House and Senate. It remains to be seen whether this legislation will be included in the final version of the farm bill. However, there is optimism that the bill can ultimately be realized and provide much-needed support for organic farmers and producers.
Meeting the Growing Demand for Organic Food
In conclusion, the Organic Market Development Act seeks to bolster support for organic farmers in the United States. With the increasing demand for organic products, this legislation aims to provide funding and resources to help organic farmers and producers sustain and expand their businesses. By codifying and increasing funding for the Organic Market Development Grant program, lawmakers hope to ensure the long-term success of the organic agriculture industry and meet the growing demand for organic food.