hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Let organic farmers use soil testing to prove no synthetic chemicals.
Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA)
In committee (Agriculture), no House vote yet.
The bill lets organic farmers test their soil for prohibited substances instead of only relying on a 3-year land history. It requires the USDA to issue rulemaking guidelines within 60 days. Rep. Newhouse chairs the Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. This bill is in the early stages with no vote scheduled.
Introduced Feb 5, 2026
This bill is under review by a committee. The committee holds hearings, gathers testimony from experts and stakeholders, and may propose amendments. If the committee votes to advance it, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
Currently, organic certification often requires a 3-year period of no prohibited substances. This bill would allow testing as an alternative, potentially reducing paperwork. For consumers, the organic label would still guarantee no synthetic chemicals, but the verification method could shift. The 60-day deadline pushes USDA to write rules fast, but actual implementation may take longer.
Supporters Say
Supporters say this gives farmers flexibility and reduces red tape while maintaining organic integrity.
Critics Say
Critics worry that testing alone might miss past contamination and could be less reliable than the current waiting period.
Supporters argue that testing is equally effective and allows more land to become organic quickly, helping meet demand. They point out that the bill requires USDA to approve accurate methods. Critics counter that a one-time test may not detect all prohibited substances that could persist over time, and the 3-year transition period provides a stronger safety net and public trust.