The bill would direct the Agriculture Secretary to create a voluntary program certifying organizations that work to reduce food loss and waste. Eligible participants would include food businesses, farms, governments, schools, colleges, and certain food service contractors. Participants would submit 12 months of records about food donations or food sent for disposal to an accredited third-party certifier. The department would promote certified participants, including through optional labels. The bill also directs Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency to update their agreement on food loss and waste.
Eligible organizations could choose to apply for certification. The program aims to increase donations of usable excess food and encourage alternatives to disposal, such as composting, animal feed, or anaerobic digestion. The bill does not require individuals or organizations to participate.
The bill authorizes $3 million for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 to carry out the program, including hiring additional staff. The funds would remain available until spent. This is an authorization, not a statement that the funds have been appropriated.
The bill states that the program is intended to reduce food loss and waste, increase donations of usable excess food to food-assistance groups, and encourage alternative disposal methods.
No publicly available information.