USDA unveils new civil rights portal

Online tool enhances complaint filing for USDA programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced an online civil rights portal to streamline the filing and tracking of discrimination complaints for its customers.

The Civil Rights Management System (CRMS), overseen by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR), aims to improve efficiency and transparency.

Dr. Penny Brown Reynolds, USDA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, emphasized the importance of the portal, stating, “The online portal is part of our efforts to better serve USDA customers and ensure Department-wide efficient, fair, consistent, and equitable application of civil rights.”

The portal allows users to submit complaints regarding discrimination experienced in USDA programs, services, or initiatives. It also enables tracking complaints from submission to resolution. The system is available in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for diverse users.

In recent years, OASCR has reduced complaint processing times by 43%, and the new system promises to enhance efficiency further. Customers can still file complaints via email, mail, or fax if they prefer.

This initiative reflects USDA’s broader goal of equity and transparency under the Administration. With historic investments in rural infrastructure and climate-smart agriculture, USDA continues to address systemic barriers in its programs.

For more information, visit www.usda.gov/oascr/program-complaints or contact USDA support services. This portal marks a significant step toward building a fairer, more equitable future in American agriculture.