The National Grain and Feed Association applauded the Senate Agriculture Committee Thursday for marking up and advancing legislation to reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Act, a move that demonstrates bipartisan support for official grain inspection and weighing services.
"This is a pivotal moment for the grain value chain," said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. "By moving this bill forward, the Senate Agriculture Committee is helping to ensure continuity, reliability and innovation in the grain inspection system that underpins the competitiveness of U.S. grain in global markets."
The legislation addresses several NGFA priorities, including renewal of inspection and weighing authorities set to expire, enhanced transparency at the Federal Grain Inspection Service, technology modernization, and adjustments to user fee caps to expand resource capacity.
NGFA expressed appreciation to Committee Chair John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) for their leadership in securing a markup that reflects industry needs. Their commitment underscores the critical importance of USGSA reauthorization.
"Modernization, efficiency and stability are nonnegotiables for participants across the supply chain — from producers, elevators and processors to exporters," Seyfert noted.
The association urged the full Senate to act quickly to pass the reauthorization bill and send it to President Trump's desk. NGFA officials said they look forward to continuing work with Senate leaders, committee members and staff to finalize passage of the legislation.
