Bill > S1398

This bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct and report on annual residue testing for imported organic feedstuffs shipped in bulk, with several key provisions. The bill defines specific terms like "covered organic feedstuff" as organic feed shipped in bulk with a national organic program import certificate, and establishes a risk-based protocol for determining which imported organic feedstuffs will be tested each year. Under the bill, the Secretary must submit an annual report to Congress within 180 days of enactment, detailing the frequency, methods, results, and standards of residue testing, as well as any actions taken based on those tests. The bill mandates that the Secretary develop protocols in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security and an interagency working group to determine testing parameters like testing frequency, quantity, type, and responsibility. If residue testing reveals any prohibited substances above permitted levels under the national organic program, the affected shipment will be excluded from organic sales and cannot be sold or labeled as organic. Importantly, the list of covered organic feedstuffs will be confidential and not made publicly available. The bill aims to enhance the verification and quality control of imported organic feedstuffs by implementing comprehensive testing and reporting requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1398/all-info