S. 1385: Organic Science and Research Investment Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Organic Science and Research Investment Act of 2025, aims to enhance and coordinate research related to organic agriculture within several U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agencies. Here are the key components of the bill:

Creation of the Coordinating and Expanding Organic Research Initiative

The bill establishes an initiative specifically for organic research. This involves:

• Forming a committee to oversee and expand the resources dedicated to organic agricultural research.
• Ensuring that research relevant to organic and transitioning-to-organic producers is effectively coordinated.
• Developing strategic plans for future organic research efforts.

Appointment and Composition of the Initiative

The Secretary of Agriculture will appoint between 12 to 18 members to the initiative, with expertise in organic agriculture. The appointments must include representation from various USDA agencies involved in agricultural research, ensuring a well-rounded approach.

Research and Report Requirements

The initiative is tasked with:

• Conducting surveys of ongoing organic research and reporting findings to the Secretary of Agriculture.
• Making recommendations for improving and expanding organic research, focusing on technological innovations and best practices that enhance productivity and sustainability.
• Reviewing recommendations from previous reports to ensure continuous improvement in organic agricultural practices.

Consultation and Collaboration

The initiative will regularly consult with organic and conventional farmers, academic institutions, and relevant organizations to ensure that the research is comprehensive and applicable to the current agricultural landscape.

Financial Appropriations

The bill also provides for dedicated funding for various initiatives:

• It authorizes appropriations for transitions to organic farming, amounting to specified increases in funding from 2026 to 2030.
• Allocates funding for post-research reports that analyze the economic and environmental impacts of organic agricultural practices.

Transition Support for Non-Organic Producers

Additionally, the bill encourages grants to support research, education, and activities aimed at helping non-organic producers transition to organic practices. This includes addressing barriers to transition and improving soil health and ecosystem management.

Economic Impact Analysis

The Secretary of Agriculture is directed to conduct an analysis assessing the economic impacts of organic agriculture across different community sizes and types, evaluating various factors including local economies, environmental quality, and social dynamics.

Support for Indigenous Knowledge

Grants related to indigenous traditional ecological knowledge are highlighted, requiring the inclusion of institutions serving Native communities and ensuring the ethical use of indigenous practices and knowledge.

Future Reporting and Recommendations

The Secretary of Agriculture will need to report how findings and recommendations from the initiative have been addressed in budget proposals, creating accountability for the implementation of the initiative's recommendations.

Relevant Companies

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