WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) have introduced the bipartisan Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act, legislation that would modernize the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s oversight of organic certification by focusing resources on higher-risk operations while reducing unnecessary burdens on farmers and businesses with strong compliance records.
“Pennsylvania’s organic farmers work hard to meet rigorous standards and provide consumers with high-quality products they can trust,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan legislation takes a smarter approach to oversight by focusing resources where they are needed most, reducing unnecessary burdens on our farmers, and strengthening confidence in the organic label.
The legislation is supported by the Organic Trade Association, Organic Farmers Association, National Organic Coalition, and Accredited Certifiers Association.
Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives.