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Industry calls for modernization and continuity in grain inspection system
The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) continued its advocacy for a timely and bipartisan reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA), appearing before the Senate Agriculture Committee to stress the importance of maintaining and modernizing the nation’s grain inspection framework.
Representing NGFA’s nearly 700 member companies, Nick Friant, Director of Raw Material Quality at Cargill and Chairman of NGFA’s Grain Grades and Weights Committee, delivered testimony that closely mirrored his earlier remarks before the House Agriculture Committee on June 26. That earlier testimony contributed to the House Committee’s bipartisan approval of a reauthorization package on July 22.
“The U.S. grain inspection system has long set a global benchmark for quality and reliability,” Friant stated in his Senate testimony. “However, as the international grain market becomes increasingly competitive, our inspection and grading systems must evolve accordingly.”
Friant underscored two core priorities for the upcoming reauthorization: advancing investment in modern grain grading technologies and clarifying emergency waiver authorities to ensure uninterrupted grain exports during operational disruptions. He also voiced support for enhancing transparency in fee structures, improving the functioning of advisory committees, and ensuring user fees are strictly applied to regulated commodities.
NGFA commended the bipartisan momentum shown by the House Agriculture Committee and called on the Senate to act swiftly to ensure that the legislation is enacted before the current authorization lapses.
The U.S. Grain Standards Act, originally passed in 1916, plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity and global competitiveness of U.S. grain exports. With its reauthorization now under consideration in both chambers of Congress, stakeholders from across the agriculture sector are watching closely for progress.
