*MEDIA STATEMENT*
Washington, D.C. (May 1, 2024) — The Organic Trade Association applauds the ongoing efforts of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees in moving forward a 2024 Farm Bill with today's release of their respective frameworks. A Farm Bill that makes progress on organic priorities is essential for building a sustainable agriculture system, protecting consumer trust in the USDA Organic seal, and supporting organic farmers.
The trade association is specifically encouraged by Senate framework’s inclusion of $50 million in authorization for continued funding of the Organic Market Development Grant Program and improved coordination for organic research in USDA’s Research, Education, and Economics mission area, as well as increased Organic Certification Cost Share funding.
"OTA looks forward to working with both committees to continue to advance a Farm Bill that delivers meaningful value for organic producers, businesses and consumers," said Matthew Dillon, Co-CEO of Organic Trade Association.
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About the Organic Trade Association
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) is the membership-based business association for organic agriculture and products in North America. OTA is the leading voice for the organic trade in the United States, representing more than 500 organic businesses across 50 states and 9,500 producers through its Farmers Advisory Committee. Its members include growers, shippers, processors, certifiers, farmers' associations, distributors, importers, exporters, consultants, retailers and others. OTA's Board of Directors is democratically elected by its members. OTA's mission is to promote and protect ORGANIC with a unifying voice that serves and engages its diverse members from farm to marketplace.