USDA Seeking Comments on Organic Checkoff Proposal

On Tuesday, the USDA announced it is seeking public comments to a proposal for a nationwide research and promotion checkoff program for the organic industry.   According to the Organic Trade Association, the organic checkoff proposal could raise more than $30 million a year to spend on organic research.  The association called the action a significant step that will help advance the organic sector.

OTA officially submitted an application to USDA in May of 2015 on behalf of the organic industry to consider implementing the program.  The association submitted a revised application last year to reflect alternatives presented to USDA from organic certificate holders.  Comments on the proposal will be accepted through March 20^th.

USDA established a 60-day public comment period for interested parties to now weigh in on the proposal. Comments on the proposal are due March 20th.

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