Washington, D.C. — The Organic Trade Association applauds USDA on its decision to return the Organic Certification Cost Share program to the 75% reimbursement level. The Organic Certification Cost Share program is critical for attracting new, young farmers to organic. Due to funding shortfalls, USDA previously reduced the reimbursement rates to 50% of the certified organic operation’s eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $500. Farms can now receive up to $750 each year (75% of the certification fee) to help defray the annual costs of organic certification. Additional funding for this important long-standing program is a priority of OTA's for the 2023 Farm Bill and will help build a diverse and thriving organic agriculture community.