(a) In general

The Secretary shall establish and implement a program to accredit a governing State official, and any private person, that meets the requirements of this section as a certifying agent for the purpose of certifying a farm or handling operation as a certified organic farm or handling operation.

(b) Requirements

To be accredited as a certifying agent under this section, a governing State official or private person shall -

(1)

prepare and submit, to the Secretary, an application for such accreditation;

(2)

have sufficient expertise in organic farming and handling techniques as determined by the Secretary; and

(3)

comply with the requirements of this section and section 6515 of this title.

(c) Duration of designation

An accreditation made under this section shall be for a period of not to exceed 5 years, as determined appropriate by the Secretary, and may be renewed