On Monday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan five-year reauthorization of the USDA’s grain inspection program, a critical move for the nation’s grain value chain. The United States Grain Standards Reauthorization Act ensures the program continues beyond its current expiration date of September 30, with key updates aimed at advancing technology in grain grading.
The legislation reflects growing bipartisan support for modernization in agriculture and reaffirms the importance of accuracy and transparency in grain markets. As part of the updated law:
“The bill would require USDA to prioritize the adoption of improved grain grading technology to enable the efficient, accurate, and consistent grading of grain.“
By pushing for improved systems, lawmakers aim to streamline the grading process and maintain the trust of both domestic and international buyers of U.S. grain.
Another critical provision in the bill addresses funding limitations that have restricted progress in the past. Specifically:
“The legislation would exempt equipment and technology costs from a 30% cap on administrative and supervisory expenses that may be incurred under the law.“
This 30% cap was originally put in place to limit program costs, but stakeholders have argued that it has prevented needed investment in new grading equipment. By removing this barrier for technology-specific expenses, the bill opens the door for faster innovation.
Support for the reauthorization spans the agricultural industry. Mike Seyfert, president and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), highlighted the legislation’s significance for the sector:
“A must-pass bill for the entire grain value chain.“
The Grain Standards Act plays a foundational role in ensuring U.S. grain is properly graded and marketed, especially in global trade where confidence in quality and consistency is essential. With the reauthorization now moving forward, grain producers, exporters, and processors can look ahead with renewed certainty.
As the bill heads to the Senate, industry groups are urging swift action to avoid any lapse in the program. Its passage would secure federal inspection services and further promote modern technologies to keep American grain competitive worldwide.
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