The Cannella Environmental Farming Act of 1995: Organic Transition Program.

Assembly Member Connolly's proposal to establish an Organic Transition Program within California's environmental farming framework aims to support farmers and ranchers seeking organic certification through a structured grant and technical assistance initiative.

The program, which the Department of Food and Agriculture must implement by July 1, 2026, creates two primary funding channels. The first provides grants to eligible organizations that offer direct support to farmers transitioning to organic production, with at least 50% of funds designated for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers as defined in existing state code. These organizations may use the grants for technical assistance, educational materials, and outreach activities, while operating under specific cost parameters - University of California and California State University may apply their established indirect cost rates, while other organizations face a 35% cap on indirect costs and must limit administrative expenses to 25% of grant funds.

The second funding stream allocates 25% of program appropriations to organic technical assistance providers for capacity building, including staff training, service administration, and continuing education in organic farming practices. These funds remain available to organizations regardless of their participation in the direct grant program. Additionally, the department may fund the development and implementation of conservation management plans specifically focused on organic transition.

The program builds upon the existing Cannella Environmental Farming Act of 1995, which established broader initiatives for ecosystem health, air quality, and wildlife habitat protection in agricultural settings. This organic transition component adds specialized support for producers pursuing certification under federal organic standards while maintaining the act's focus on environmental stewardship.