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House Agriculture Committee advances grain standards bill

Legislation ensures continuity of critical inspection services while modernizing century-old system that underpins U.S. grain trade.

United States Congress

The House Agriculture Committee approved legislation Tuesday to reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Act, incorporating key priorities advocated by the National Grain and Feed Association to modernize the nation’s grain inspection system.

The bipartisan bill ensures critical grain inspection and weighing services will continue beyond their scheduled Sept. 30 expiration date, while introducing reforms to enhance efficiency and technological advancement within the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS).

“This is a must-pass bill for the entire grain value chain. It plays a vital role in facilitating the movement of U.S. grain to domestic and global markets,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “Its timely passage is a top priority for NGFA.”

The legislation modifies the annual user fee cap structure set by Congress, a change that will expand resources available for official grading and inspection services. It also includes provisions promoting the adoption of new technologies in grain inspection processes.

Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) emphasized the historical significance of the act, which has shaped U.S. grain markets since 1916.

“These standards are a cornerstone of our agricultural system, supporting transparency, consistency, and fairness across the supply chain,” Thompson said during the markup session. “They help ensure that U.S. grain maintains its strong reputation for quality and reliability in global markets.”

The USGSA provides federal authority to establish official marketing standards for grains and oilseeds, along with procedures for inspection and weighing. While many provisions are permanently authorized, key authorities require periodic reauthorization.

“This bill strengthens the reliability and competitiveness of U.S. grain by promoting modernization and minimizing red tape,” Seyfert added. “We are looking forward to working with Congress to pass strong legislation out of both chambers and onto President Trump’s desk for signature.”

The NGFA, which testified before the committee in June outlining its priorities, praised the bipartisan leadership of Chairman Thompson, Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Subcommittee Chairman Austin Scott (R-Ga.) and Ranking Member Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) for advancing the legislation.

Industry experts note that any lapse in authorization could disrupt inspection processes and create uncertainty in both domestic and international grain markets.

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