H.R. 4550: United States Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2025

This bill, known as the United States Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2025, aims to reauthorize the existing United States Grain Standards Act, which regulates the grading and quality of grain. The key aspects of the bill are outlined below:

Policy Declaration

The bill updates the policy declaration to emphasize the importance of adopting improved grain grading technology. The objective is to ensure that grain grading is efficient, accurate, and consistent.

Inspection Authority and Funding

The bill allows for the Secretary of Agriculture to implement inspections for domestic non-export grain loaded or unloaded at export ports. Furthermore, it alters language relating to the “fund” used for inspections and services, replacing it with “trust fund” terminology, suggesting an update to financial management of such activities. The funding period for related activities is extended from 2025 to 2030.

Weighing Authority

Provisions related to weighing authority are expanded to include both state agencies and official agencies. This clarification enhances the roles these agencies play in the grain inspection process.

Testing of Equipment

The bill replaces references to “fund created” with “trust fund created” in the section concerning the testing of equipment, signifying an update to financial sourcing for these activities.

Administrative Cost Limitations

It amends the restrictions on administrative and supervisory costs, expanding the categories to include activities, equipment, and technology development. The financial timeline is also updated to extend through 2030.

General Authorities

Adjustments are made in the general authorities section to incorporate official agencies alongside the Department of Agriculture, thereby clarifying oversight roles in grain standards and inspections.

Registration and Reporting Requirements

The bill updates registration requirements to replace “fund described” with “trust fund described.” It also modifies reporting requirements: the Secretary is mandated to conduct yearly analyses of deficiencies in technology evaluation processes and recommend advancements to improve grain grading efficiency and reduce costs.

Funding Changes

Funding provisions are altered to extend from 2026 through 2030, replacing earlier timelines. Changes are also made to specify that some services will not include grading services performed under another act.

Advisory Committee Adjustments

Language related to the advisory committee has been adjusted to ensure continuity of service for existing members until new appointments are made. The timeline for advisory committee members is also updated to extend through 2030.

Relevant Companies

• CORN: This ETF tracks the performance of grain commodities and may be impacted by changes in grain standards and grading regulations.
• ADM: Archer Daniels Midland is involved in grain processing and trading; changes in grain standards could affect its operational processes and product quality assessments.
• AGRI: Farmers Business Network, Inc. provides services to farmers, including grain trading; updates to standards could impact their service offerings.