USDA will publish a new proposed rule to expand the National Organic Program’s oversight and enforcement of the production, handling and sale of organic products in the Federal Register today.

USDA invites public comment on the Strengthening Organic Enforcement proposed rule through Oct. 5, 2020. Comments must be submitted through www.regulations.gov and will be considered by USDA as it develops the final rule.

“Organic agriculture is one of the fastest growing sectors in the food market,” said Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Greg Ibach. “As the organic market has grown, organic supply chains have become more complex. Stronger market oversight is needed to protect farmers and consumers who choose the organic option.”

USDA is committed to supporting organic farmers and ranchers by developing clear standards and creating a level playing field. Once finalized, the revised regulations will:

Related:70 orgs call for changes to organic dairy regs

The proposed regulation would implement new oversight authority provided in the 2018 Farm Bill. It includes recommendations from the National Organic Standards Board and the Office of Inspector General and draws from USDA’s experience in enforcing the organic regulations.

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