Kuster Introduces Organic-Farming Bill

Rep. Ann Kuster (D-N.H.) has introduced a bill that aims to help
farmers transition to organic agriculture and boost American
production of organic products to reduce dependence on imports.
The Homegrown Organic Act of 2017 would amend the Food
Security Act of 1985 by modifying existing conservation programs
to help farmers who are working toward organic certification. It
would also remove a payment limit under the Environmental
Quality Incentives Program Organic Initiative, which provides
financial assistance for implementing environmentally friendly
practices. In addition, the bill would expand the Conservation
Stewardship Program, providing assistance to farms in transition
as well as those already in organic production. The bill has been
referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.

Issue 643